“What about single mothers?” I ask. I turn to face him, my arms crossed over my chest.
“They knew better than to get themselves in that situation.”
“I’m a single mother.”
“You should have stayed with him,” Roger fires back.
“I adopted my daughter on my own.”
Finally, he shows some emotion. This time, it’s Roger’s mouth that’s hanging open with shock. “You adopted a baby on your own? Why in the hell would you do that? You know your kid is going to get made fun of their entire life for not having a dad, right?” he asks.
“That’s enough.” Knox’s voice is firm and cold.
“I think it’s time for you to go,” Baker tells Roger.
“What? Because I’m speaking my mind?”
“No, because you’re a dick,” Foster seethes.
“You don’t have to leave the restaurant, but you’re not welcome at this table.” Landry glares at him.
In fact, all five of the guys are glaring at him. My face heats with mortification. I knew tonight was a bad idea. Dating isn’t for me. Every guy is an asshole, just like my ex-husband, and I’ve had all the asshole I can stand for one lifetime.
“Thank you all for inviting me. I’m going to call a cab and go grab my daughter,” I say, pushing back from the table to stand.
“Stay.” Reid’s eyes find mine. “He’s leaving.”
“Good, but truly, I’ve had all the fun I can handle for one night. Thank you for the invite.” I nod, fighting back tears.
“Manda—” Bellamy calls after me, but I’m already walking away from the table. Outside the restaurant, I pull up my app to order a car.
“Hey.”
I don’t have to turn around to recognize my best friend’s voice. “I’m okay,” I assure her, turning to smile as she steps up next to me.
“I’m sorry. He never acted that way when I worked with him.”
“It’s not your fault. It didn’t work out, and if I get to choose, I’d rather be at home with my daughter instead of that tool in there.”
“He left the table. Come back inside.” Her eyes are pleading.
“Honestly, Bellamy, I’m fine. I promise. I’m just not there yet.”
“I feel terrible.”
“You don’t have to feel terrible for someone else’s actions, Bellamy. There is nothing I love more than a quiet night in with my daughter.”
“You know you’re going to break my dad’s heart, right? He was really looking forward to having both girls.”
This makes me laugh. “I’m sure he’ll be relieved to only have to chase after one.”
“He’s good with kids. He really was looking forward to it.”
“I’ll tell my Uber driver to take his time.” I chuckle.
“Fine, but know that I’m sorry, and please don’t let this keep you from trying again.”
“I won’t,” I assure her, pulling her into a hug. “Love you, bestie.”