Savannah squealed and tackled her in a bear hug. “Thank you thank you thank you! I owe you big time for this.”
“It was all Drew.” Piper laughed and looked to Jade. “Can you pry her off? She’s constricting my airflow.”
Savannah pulled back, her eyes wide. “We’ll rent the place from her, of course. Did Drew tell her we were willing to pay?”
Piper tipped her head in thought. “I don’t know, actually. But he did say that she asked to be put up in a fancy hotel suite during the weddings, which I didn’t think you’d mind.”
Savannah clapped her hands. “Not at all! We’ll rent the place and put her up in a suite. Sharon is going to flip!” She grabbed her phone, swiped the screen and held it to her ear in record time.
Jade gave Piper a dry smile. “Way to go. Now we can’t start our game for at least another twenty minutes.”
Piper lifted her hands. “Sorry.” She sank onto the sofa and patted the seat beside her. “Tell me about the wedding planning. How are things going?”
Jade sat next to her. “Things are going great, thanks to Savannah.” She shook her head. “I was worried that it would be so stressful trying to plan that I wouldn’t be able to enjoy this time of being engaged to Connor, but Savannah has made it all streamlined. She’s taken out the stress and made it fun. I can’t imagine doing this without her help.”
“She has a gift,” Piper agreed. “I’m so happy for you and Connor. I’ve never seen two people more in love.” Jade and Connor were soul mates. Even in high school Piper had known they were meant for each other. And now he was building her her dream house on a lot that backed up against the Pine Ridge mountains. It would be completed before their June wedding, and it warmed Piper’s heart to think of them starting their new life together. She smiled and tipped her head to the side. “I’m surprised Connor was willing to spare you tonight, considering you just got back in town.”
Jade lifted a shoulder in a guilty shrug. “He picked me up from the airport this afternoon, so we spent some time together.” A blush formed on her cheeks.
Piper smirked. “Judging by that blush, it was some nice, quality time.”
Jade laughed and ducked her head. “Am I that easy to read?”
“It’s written all over your face,” Piper teased. “And speaking of reading, how was the conference? What’s your current book project?”
Jade smiled and rested her head on her elbow. “The conference was great. I just finished edits on the second book in my series, and I feel good about it.”
Piper touched her arm. “Jade, that’s amazing! I can’t wait to read it.” Jade had always been writing stories, and Piper was thrilled that she was fulfilling her dream of becoming an established author on her own. She’d given up life in New York to be with Connor, and it was obviously the right choice. She practically glowed with happiness. “It’s so nice to have you back home,” Piper said.
“Thanks.” Jade nodded, her hazel eyes warm. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
“Wouldn’t have what any other way?” Leah asked, entering the room balancing a tray with bowls of ice cream. Piper jumped up to help her.
“Being home,” Jade said, accepting a bowl from Leah.
“I know what you mean,” Leah answered. “Growing up, all we could talk about was getting out of Pine Ridge to see the world. Especially you, Pipe.” She nudged her with her elbow. “You were going to explore the world with all of your Boardwalk money.”
Piper laughed, settling onto the couch with the bowl of ice cream perched on her lap. “That’s right. And now you’re the one living my dream, flying around the world.”
“And serving people bags of peanuts,” Leah quipped, making a face. “Super glamorous.”
“Yeah, don’t pretend it’s not glamorous.” Jade pointed a spoon at her. “All those hot pilots and exotic destinations? You know you love it.”
Leah lifted a shoulder. “I don’t date pilots. But other than that, it has its perks.” She gave a little smile and took a bite of her ice cream.
“Okay, this is officially the best night ever,” Savannah said, entering the room. She grabbed the last bowl of ice cream from the tray and bowed to Piper. “I am your humble servant. Sharon all but promoted me on the spot just now. She’s out-of-her-head happy we can keep the weddings at Briarwood.” She shook her head. “That owner could demand a Ferrari and Sharon would probably give it to her. Good thing it sounds like she’s reasonable.”
Piper nodded. “You lucked out, that’s for sure.”
“I thought you didn’t believe in luck.” Savannah gave her a teasing look before taking a bite of ice cream. She swallowed. “What have you guys been doing out here? I thought you’d have it all set up by now.”
“I’ll be the banker,” Jade said, scooting forward on the couch.
Piper’s heart fluttered. All this talk about New York and banking reminded her of Drew. She could still smell him on her skin. She closed her eyes, reliving his kisses. Once she closed her eyelids, they grew heavy. She really did love this game, but it had been such a long day. She held back a yawn, forcing her eyes open. “Guys, I hate to say this, but you might have to play without me tonight.”
All three of her friends turned to her in varying displays of surprise and disappointment.
“You’re not even going to try for Boardwalk?” Jade asked, shocked.
She met their stares with an apologetic shrug. “It’s been such a long day, and tomorrow will be too.”
Savannah held out the tiny metal shoe, dangling it in front of Piper. “Come on . . . just a few rounds? You don’t have to work at the Silvermine tomorrow, so you can catch a nap after you work with Josh. Besides, you haven’t dished about Drew yet, and now that we’re all together it’s the perfect opportunity.”
The others nodded their agreement and Piper sighed. “Actually, I do work at the Silvermine tomorrow. It looks like I’ll be working both jobs for a while.” Or indefinitely.
Her friends leaned forward, waiting for details. Piper sighed and took another bite of her ice cream, knowing she wouldn’t get more until it was almost melted. There was no use fighting it—this was going to be a long night.
Chapter Twenty-Four
The early morning Colorado sky was dusted with gold as Drew rounded the corner back to his apartment. He’d spent another restless night thinking about Piper and forcing himself not to send her texts at all hours. He didn’t want to scare her off by coming on too strong, but he couldn’t explain the strength of his feelings for her. Ever since he’d laid eyes on her at the mall, she’d captivated him completely. After realizing sleep wasn’t going to happen, he’d decided to go for a jog to clear his head.
The pine-scented air was invigorating, even at this altitude, and he’d pushed himself more than usual. His calves burned by the time he climbed the steps to the apartment, careful to unlock the front door as quietly as possible so as not to wake Olivia.
He closed the door softly behind him and crept toward the kitchen. The light was on.
“It’s okay, I’m up,” Olivia called in a groggy voice.
Drew arched an eyebrow and checked his watch. “Before eight? Did I wake you when I left?” He entered the kitchen to find her cooking eggs at the stove. In her fuzzy robe and with her dark hair sticking out at all angles, she reminded him of the seven-year-old version of herself. He smiled as she turned to him, stifling a yawn.
“I wanted to get an early start on job hunting. Do you want some eggs?”
“Sure. Thanks.” He went to the fridge and got out a water bottle, downing its entire contents in seconds. He wiped his mouth on his sleeve and leaned against the fridge. “Any word from that office supply store yet?”
She shook her head. “I just applied, so it will probably take a few days.” She made a face as she turned over the eggs. “And I wouldn’t mind finding something else. The manager kept staring at me in a creepy way—and he’s married.”
His protective
big brother side bristled. “Don’t take the job. You’ll find something else.”
“I hope so.” She sighed. “It’s looking more and more like it will have to be in Denver though. That’s where I’m heading today after breakfast.” She removed the pan from the burner and dished up the eggs, adding a few pieces of buttered toast to each plate before offering one to Drew.
He tilted his head to the side. “Piper said she’d ask around. I’ll see if she’s heard of anything.”
Olivia met his eyes as she sat at the counter. “How are things going with her?”
The smile slid onto his face before he could stop it. “Really good.”
She took a sip of orange juice, studying him. “I’ve never seen you this infatuated before. Not even with Lindsay.”
Drew’s stomach churned at the name. He shook it off. “I’ve never felt like this before.”
She smiled and put her hand on his. “It’s great to see you so happy.” She paused, “Just—maybe don’t rush into things too fast. Take the time to really get to know her before you lose your heart.”
Drew nodded, unwilling to admit that he was already losing his heart.
Liv took her hand back and picked at her piece of toast. “You’re just too sweet a guy and I couldn’t bear to see you get hurt again.”
Drew’s heart softened at the concern on her face. “Liv.” He leaned forward, waiting until she looked at him. “I’ll be careful. I promise.”
“That’s all I ask.” She took a bite of toast and swallowed. “For what it’s worth, I really like Piper. You need to bring her around more often.”
He smiled. “I plan to.”
“Let’s just hope Gran doesn’t scare her off,” she teased.
“Exactly,” he said, raising an eyebrow. His phone buzzed on the counter and he grabbed it, his heart hopeful. He read the text. And then read it again, frowning.
“What? Is it from Piper?” Olivia asked.
He nodded, still staring at the screen. “She’s cancelling our date for tonight.”
Liv paused, holding her forkful of eggs midair. “Did she say why?”
“Yeah.” He lowered his phone. “She says she had to take an extra shift at the Silvermine.”
Liv’s face relaxed. “Oh. Well, that makes sense.” She brightened. “You can hang out with me tonight.”
“Yeah.” Drew smiled, doing his best to look happy while his heart fell to his feet. Why was Piper taking the extra shift? He tried not to overthink the situation but worry nagged that it was an excuse not to see him. He texted a reply.
I’ll miss you, but I understand. Can I bring you anything between jobs to help get you through?
Her reply came quickly.
I’d like to see you, but you don’t need to bring me anything. How about we meet at Riverbend park after we get off work?
It’s a date.
His set his phone down, his heart lighter. Liv was right, Piper couldn’t help it if she had to work an extra shift. Besides, it would be good for him to spend more time with his sister. He could tell she was lonely, and he wanted to be there for her.
“Everything alright?” Liv asked.
“Yeah. I’ll still get to see her today.” He smiled. “How about I take you to a movie tonight?”
“Sounds great.” She cleared her plate and gave him a peck on the cheek on her way to the sink. “Good luck at work.”
He scooped up some eggs on his fork. “Thanks. The transition is almost complete, so it will be busy.” He paused. “You sure you don’t want a job at the bank? I could send you in from ‘corporate’ to help out while you job hunt.”
She turned and gave him a look over her shoulder. “No thanks. You know I don’t do the bank scene.”
“You sure?” He cocked an eyebrow. “I work with a guy named Pete who’s really nice. I think you’d like him.”
She rolled her eyes in response.
He leaned back in his chair. “No problem. I’ll just invite him to join us for the movie tonight.”
She grabbed a kitchen towel and swatted him. “Don’t you dare!”
He laughed and held up his hands. “Alright, alright. Good luck on the job hunt.”
She shook her head. “Good luck with Piper. That poor girl doesn’t know what she’s getting into with you.”
Drew grinned. “Which gives me a fighting chance.”
She pursed her lips to hide a smile and then walked off toward her bedroom.
Drew finished eating and rinsed off his dishes before stacking them in the dishwasher. He headed toward his bathroom for a quick shower, eager to get the next few hours out of the way so he could see his favorite redhead again.
Chapter Twenty-Five
Piper sat on a bench beneath a large pine tree. She fidgeted with the strap of her purse, anxious about meeting Drew. She was grateful she’d opted for flats today. Heels would have been out of place in a park setting. She loved Riverbend Park with all of its mature trees and walking trails next to the river. She often came here as a child when her dad was drunk and she was too embarrassed to go to one of her friends’ houses.
A warm hand touched her back. Piper started, giving a small gasp before realizing it was Drew.
He chuckled. “Sorry. I didn’t mean to startle you.”
She laughed. “Yeah you did.”
He circled around the bench, a mischievous glimmer in his brown eyes as he lifted both hands. “Busted. I like surprising people. I’m flawed that way. Do you think you could learn to love me in spite of my flaws?”
He flashed her a devilish smile and she tried to keep her breathing steady. Why did that word keep coming up between them? And why did it feel so natural to hear it on his lips? She brushed the thought away as he took a seat beside her, clasping her hand in his.
“I missed you,” he said.
“I missed you, too.”
His smile was warm as he leaned in for a kiss. Piper closed her eyes, meeting him halfway. Her skin tingled all over as he kissed her softly—achingly soft, as if savoring the feel of her lips. He pulled back all too soon, toying with the ends of her hair.
“Thanks for making time to meet me,” he said. “Will you be able to eat before your shift?”
She nodded, still trying to regain her senses from that core-melting kiss. “I’ll eat at the Silvermine during a break.”
He ran his thumb across her knuckles. “I’m sorry you’re working these long hours. Your boss sounds like a reasonable guy—does he really expect you to give the full two weeks? I’m sure he wouldn’t want you running yourself ragged like this.”
She straightened, taking in a deep breath. This was the opening she needed. “Actually, that’s what I wanted to talk to you about.”
He tipped his head, confusion creasing his brow. “Your work?”
“Yes.”
He sat back slowly, his mouth forming a line. “Something to do with Josh?”
She blinked. Now it was her turn to be confused. “No. It’s about my waitressing job.”
His face relaxed, and for the first time she realized he viewed Josh as competition. Drew was jealous. The realization made her stomach flutter. She shook her head. “Just so we’re clear, I don’t have any interest in Josh. At all.”
He raised innocent eyebrows. “That’s cool.” He shrugged. “It never crossed my mind that my gorgeous girlfriend works long hours every day with a good-looking, fit, successful, single guy.” One corner of his mouth lifted.
Piper laughed. “You’re cute when you’re jealous. But really, you have nothing to worry about.” There were zero sparks with Josh. Nothing like the full-on explosions she felt with Drew.
“It doesn’t help that his face is plastered on signs all over town.” He squinted at her. “Just when I tell myself not to worry about it, there he is—giving that smug smile.”
She tilted her head. “If it bothered you so much, why didn’t you say anything?”
He ran a hand along the back of his neck and Pi
per’s heart stuttered, melting at the vulnerable look in his eyes. “Because, until last night when things between us became,” he paused, “official, I guess, I didn’t feel like I had the right to say anything. But more than that—I trust you.”
The words hit her. She wanted to be the kind of person he could trust. She had to tell him about the job. She cleared her throat. “That means a lot. And I want you to trust me, which is why I need to tell you something.”
He straightened. “Okay.”
“It’s what I was trying to say before, about the waitressing job.”
His shoulders relaxed. “Right. Sorry if I interrupted. What is it?”
She twisted her hands. “Something’s come up, and it’s not financially possible for me to quit right now.”
He frowned. “Oh man. That’s not good news.” He leaned forward. “What’s going on? Maybe I can help.”
If only you could. She quickly shook her head. She wasn’t about to ask him for money. She didn’t want to be like her parents, constantly begging from others. She forced a weak smile. “That’s sweet of you, but it’s something I have to handle on my own. That’s why I had to cancel our date tonight. I’m going to be working a lot of hours.” She fidgeted her purse strap again. “I know it’s not great as far as spending time together—but it’s what I have to do.”
He took her hand, quiet for a few beats as he studied her. “What aren’t you telling me?”
She looked at her hand intertwined with his. She wasn’t ready to tell him about her parents, her childhood. Things were still new in their relationship. She didn’t want to burden Drew with her family problems. What if he viewed her differently knowing the kind of life she’d come from? She bit the inside of her cheek. “It’s just something I have to deal with on my own. I’m sorry.”
“Because you don’t trust me?” His eyes swirled with hurt.
She shook her head, begging him to understand. “It’s not that. It’s just that I’m used to doing things on my own. Maybe that’s my flaw,” she lifted a shoulder, “but I hope you can learn to love me anyway?”
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