“Oh my God, Darby, I didn’t mean anything.”
“Stop!” She throws her hand in my face. “You’ll learn I’m not a prude. But it’s my brother.”
“Preach, Darby and Pierce are two of the worst ever. We all know about Devin being conceived in her bakery.”
“Going now.” She rolls her eyes before disappearing.
“Okay, spill.” Megan scoots her chair closer.
“There’s nothing to tell. We hit it off. After the club, we walked around the hotel, and I stayed in his room. He offered me a shirt to change into, and we went to bed.”
“That’s the most boring night in history, considering how I found you fused on the dance floor.” Scottie sighs dramatically. “I expected a little more from him.”
“It wasn’t boring. We talked, kissed, laughed, cuddled…” I trail off when Billy and Scottie’s faces morph to horror.
“Cuddled? He’s a cuddler?”
“Well, it was more of him situating me on top of him until I fell asleep.”
“That’s about right, no space at all,” Ashlyn speaks up and Stephanie nods her agreement.
“Thank God I don’t have to pull his credentials.” Scottie refills his glass and does the same for Megan, Stephanie, and Billy. “Possessive bedroom positions are important.”
“He did kinda flip this morning when he found out I paid for a room. He took my key when I was asleep, and my things were there when I woke.”
“Heard about that room. I’m working on a full refund. They are being a little weird since it was a package, but you may get another spa day soon.”
I bolt up, squealing, “What?”
“Evin didn’t want you to be out the money. I’m getting you either a refund or a credit.”
“But why?”
“Oh lord, she’s gonna blow,” Stephanie assesses calmly. “Someone may want to fill her in.”
“Gladly. Evin will not let you pay for an unused room. That’s a ridiculous use of your money.”
“If I hadn’t met him, I’d have stayed there.”
“It’s a moot point now.”
“Can you apply it toward his extended stay?”
Darby strolls to her chair, shaking her head. “You want to set Evin off, that’s a way to do it. I missed it last night because I was in post-sex afterglow and then post-show adoration, but this morning it clicked. Don’t try it. He’s a man, Poppy. Let him do this.”
I fall back, chewing the inside of my cheek to figure out how to do something for him.
“Babe, don’t know what men you’ve been dating, but this is the MO for this crowd,” Stephanie informs me.
“Actually, I’m not used to dating much. My last bonafide boyfriend was in college. Our ending was ugly. That was over seven years ago.” My mouth has a mind of its own, spouting my personal business.
All their expressions take on a shocked look, and Billy is the only one who speaks. “Sick, no wonder she’s freaking. She’s used to dating boys.”
“I’m not freaking. I’m cautious and realistic.”
“Oh lord, this will be explosive. I may need to take a few days and stay behind to witness the greatest of all.”
“Scottie, I’d give you a kidney, but you try to bail on me now, I’ll kill you. Four weeks until I’m married and our moms are off our backs, you’ll get a very nice vacation. Todd promises.”
“I can work virtual, keep you from going down in flames, and watch the budding romance.” He says it with such seriousness, I’m a little sick. It takes a full minute for Darby to burst into giggles.
“You’re safe, Poppy. This is as much Scottie’s wedding as Stephanie’s.”
“Changing the subject, can we talk about that fabulous ring on your finger?” Ashlyn comes to sit on the side of my chair, taking my hand. “This is totally you.”
The metal and diamond sparkle magnificently in the sun. My stomach dips and flutters with giddiness. “It was a present.”
“Perfect present from a businessman to a bohemian goddess,” she whispers.
Those words sink in, all the anxiety seeping away.
That wasn’t so bad after all.
Chapter 5
Evin
“Shouldn’t you be packing to go home? Your wake-up call is early.” I open the door to Darby and Pierce.
“Yes, she should, but she’s stubborn,” Pierce grumbles.
“I need to talk to you.” Darby passes on her way to the bar, pouring two drinks.
“We left dinner less than an hour ago.”
“This is between family.”
“Meaning you want to talk about Poppy.”
She nods, bringing us the glasses and perching on the arm of the sofa. “I like her.”
“Me too.”
“I really like her.”
“Is there a point here?”
She wrings her hands together. “I’m worried.”
“About what?”
“Well, there’s the fact that, for the first time in forever, you’re showing interest in a woman that performs in Vegas for a living.”
I take a sip of the bourbon to tamper down the spark of irritation at her implication. “Is that a problem?”
“Oh! Not that she’s a performer, but her life is here. What does that mean for a future?”
“Fuck, Darby, it’s not ideal, but I’m not walking away because of shitty location.”
“Pierce shared what he saw this morning. After spending the day with her, I know she’s not the type of woman who falls into bed with every high-balling businessman that comes around.”
A throaty growl rumbles low, and I swallow the rest of the liquid in one gulp. “Careful.”
“Baby, you should get to the point and not mention her falling into bed with other men,” Pierce pushes.
“Sorry, I’m saying she lives across the country, so what can come out of this?”
“Poppy told me about your day. You know this isn’t a sex thing,” I point out and Darby flinches.
“That’s none of my business.”
“No, but I think it helps you to learn where I’m coming from.”
“My worry comes from what happens next.”
“What happens next is I stay and spend time with her. Meet her friends and get to know her life. In a few weeks, she’ll be at Stephanie’s wedding. Hopefully, she can come back to Charleston.”
“Then what?”
“I don’t have a crystal ball, Darby.”
“I want you to be happy, but selfishly, I want you to be happy in Charleston.”
My mind has been waging this war since I left Poppy at the pool today. Staying behind is only delaying the inevitable because Poppy and I live two very different lives.
“To be honest, I don’t know what the hell I’m doing. I’m not ready to get on a plane tomorrow and leave without spending more time with her. There’s something between us that’s unexplainable.”
“She’s special.”
“I think we already established that.”
“I’m being irrational. There’s no need for me to question you. This is your life and your decisions.” She attempts a smile but fails. Her eyes brim with tears.
Pierce moves, but I get to her first. “Is something else going on here?”
“My baby boy is named after you, and my daughter is coming in a few months. I’ve waited my entire life to be where I am. You are my rock—I can’t lose you now that everything is perfect.” Her face crumbles.
I place my glass on the table and pull her to me gently. “You’ll never lose me.”
She lets out a few sobs before sucking in a breath to get control. “Gah! I’m such an emotional wreck. I blame it on this baby being a girl. The hormones are much more unbalanced this time around.”
“Maybe so, but I think you’re jumping ahead here. Me staying behind doesn’t mean the movers are on standby. Give me some time and see how this plays out.”
“Pierce said he picked up on some intense vibes this
morning when he ran into you two in the lobby.”
I glance at my brother-in-law. “I have you to thank for this? You couldn’t help yourself, could you?”
“Not a chance, I call it as I see it. Besides, you’re the one laying the seeds.”
“Why don’t y’all let me figure out what is happening before you plan my going away party?”
My sister nods against my stomach, sniffing a few times before lifting her head. “There is one good thing that comes out of this; you’re taking that time off.”
“Yes, and I sent Jackson a text this afternoon requesting a full-time assistant.”
“Excellent news.”
“Now that’s all straight, you okay? Poppy’s on the stage in twenty minutes.”
“Yes, I’m good. Sorry to bombard you like this.” She stands, sliding past me, then spins quickly. “One more thing.”
“Of course there is,” I mutter.
“This is important. Poppy mentioned something today about her last boyfriend being an asshole.”
“That would explain why he is her ex.”
“She’s been single a long time. You’ve been single a long time, too.”
“Is there a point?”
“If either of you ever needs to talk, Peirce and I are available.”
“No offense, but I’m good.” I refrain from pointing out that they are far from relationship experts. Then I think of something she can do. “I have one job for you.”
“What?”
“I need you to handle Mom.”
Her eyes bulge and face twists in dread. “You want me to handle Mom? There’s no way.”
“It’s a tough job, but try to avoid her questions.”
“How can I do that when she’s taking care of our children?”
“Just keep to the basics. I’ll tell her and Dad I’m staying. Your job is to avoid the subject of Poppy until I get back.”
“We’ll do what we can.” Pierce wraps his arm around Darby’s waist. “You won’t be able to keep your secret for long.”
“Poppy’s not a secret. There’s just nothing to discuss yet.”
“Yet,” he reaffirms with a smug smile. “I bet next weekend there will be a lot to discuss.”
“My business.”
Darby giggles, shoving her shoulder into his side. “Okay, we’ll do our best.”
I grin, knowing I’ve given her an impossible job.
“She’s on her way.” Dante strolls over. “Ryanne called after the show.”
“No problem.”
He props against the wall, evidently sticking around. “How long did you extend your stay?”
“Until Thursday.”
“Don’t know what you have planned, but the helicopter tour is cool, there are awesome shows all over the strip, and the new stadium isn’t too far if you’re into that.”
“Not staying in Vegas to sightsee.”
He turns toward me, his eyes stormy, his expression hard. Last night, his protective instincts were obvious, but he had an ease about him. Opposite of the way he’s eyeing me now.
“I think you get Pips is my girl.”
“Picked up on that.”
“Which means I look out for her, all the time.”
“Glad to hear it.”
“Poppy Malone isn’t the dreamer she portrays. She’s one of the smartest and kindest people I’ve ever known. She’s also one of the toughest.”
“You want to get to your point?”
“If you’re looking for a casual hook-up to have fun, move on. She’s not that woman.”
“You don’t know shit about me.”
“I know your type. A big shot executive that comes to Vegas to have a little fun. A gorgeous performer catches your eye, and suddenly you’re buying presents, paying for private cabanas, extending your stay at a swanky hotel, and expecting her to stay with you.”
Anger boils in my blood at his assumptions, and I stand to full height, crossing my arms to keep from curling my fists. He doesn’t balk, challenging me with his glare.
“Poppy told me you’re her family. Out of respect, I’ll let that slide. What happens between Poppy and me is between us, and I figure she’ll share what she wants. But I’m not expecting anything from her. Everything that happens is her choice. What the fuck is wrong with me hanging around to get to know her?”
“If she told you I was her family, then you need to know I take the job seriously. The family she grew up with chewed her up and spit her out. They fucked her over on the concept of loyalty, love, and moral values.”
“Jesus, Dante, maybe you should shut up and let Poppy share with me.”
“Maybe I should, but she’s a fucking superstar. She bounced back with flying colors. She lives her life with so much love it bleeds from her. I met your friends and family. Saw the way she glowed. I have to know you will not be ‘that guy’. The guy who breaks her spirit for his rocks.”
“I let it slide once, not feeling generous this time. I’d never break her.” The anger turns to fury, and I try to tame it back for the sake of Poppy’s momentary arrival.
His eyes rake up and down my body, which is practically vibrating. His expression changes as a wide smile splits across his face. “Fuck me, Pips found a Rambo.”
“Not smart to provoke me right now.”
“I had to see for myself if you had staying power.” He barks out a laugh, slapping me on the shoulder.
Staying Power? “What the hell does that mean?”
“I’ll give you two days. If you don’t figure it out by then, I’ll clue you in.”
“If you’re referring to the ridiculous phrase I think you are, then rest assured.”
“Good.”
“Shit, three hours ago, I had my sister in tears riding my ass. Now you. Is this going to be a habit?”
“Who knows?” He shrugs, still smiling arrogantly.
Right then, the door opens and Poppy comes out, carrying an overloaded bag and chatting with another woman. When she sees us, her face lights up and she waves to the woman, making her way over. All thoughts of Dante disappear as I take her in. She’s wearing the same sundress from earlier when she left the room, but her face is flushed and glowing, her hair pulled high on her head, her eyes bright with excitement.
My chest tightens and pulse races with the way she floats across the space, happiness etched on her features and her smile aimed at me.
“Hi there.” She stops a few feet away.
I step into her space, sweeping my lips across hers and wrapping my arms around her waist. “Hey.”
“Did you enjoy the show again?”
“Stunning,” I repeat the same thing from last night.
She beams proudly. “You had a much better seat tonight.”
“It was alright. I prefer my view right now.”
The hazel gleam of her eyes sparkles in the light. The brilliant mix of blues and greens seeps into me, hammering my self-control. I fight the impulse to pick her up and drag her away, needing her all to myself. She cups my cheek, scraping her nails through the short stubble. “I’m glad you’re here.”
The words score through my system, and I drop my mouth back to hers. “When I’m here and you’re working, this is exactly where I’ll be waiting,” I say against her lips.
We stay like this, her in my arms and caressing my face gently. Without saying it, I hope she understands what I mean.
“Pips, want me to take your bag by your house on my way home.” Dante breaks the moment, and both of us twist our faces to his. He’s grinning like a loon, clearly enjoying our show of intimacy.
“No, thanks, I have to run by the place tomorrow and pack.”
His amusement heightens as he looks between the two of us. “Is Ryanne going to be there?”
“I assume, depending on what time I head over. “
“Let me know what time.”
“Why?”
“I want to be there for this.”
“For what?”
<
br /> “When Ryanne meets Evin. It’s the entertainment I live for.”
“Hate to burst your bubble, but I’m going alone.”
I jerk, tightening my hold, and glance back at her. “Alone?”
She twists into me. “I figured I’d go while you are working.”
“Tomorrow is Sunday. My shit can be done anytime.”
“Do you want to go?”
“See where you live? Meet your roommate and best friend? Get a feel for your life? Hell yes.”
Her palm moves to my neck and she squeezes. “We’ll go when you get a break.”
“Good call. If you showed up without him, Ryanne would drag you back here by your hair. She almost blew the roof off when I told her I left you with him last night.”
Poppy head plants into my chest, shaking her head. “Why are you two so dramatic?”
“It’s one of our many fine traits. I’m going home now. Partying until four a.m. is catching up with me.” He pushes off the wall and steps in, kissing the back of her head. “Have a great night.”
“Love you,” she mumbles into my shirt. He flashes me an approving grin before mouthing ‘staying power’ and walking down the back hall.
“You hungry?” I ask, placing my chin on the top of her head.
“Didn’t you eat earlier?”
“I did, but you haven’t.”
“I could eat, but it is late. Do you have to get up early to tell Darby and the others goodbye?”
“I already did that. We are sleeping in tomorrow.”
She moves back and grins shyly up at me. “Sunday is my sleep-in day.”
“Good to know.”
I take the bag off her shoulder and link my other hand with hers. “How about we order room service?”
“You ordered room service this morning.”
“Is there a rule we can’t do it more than once?”
“No, but it’s… pricey.”
I can see the wheels turning and pick up on her hesitation. “Don’t worry about that.”
She runs her bottom lip through her teeth and seems to think about it before nodding. “Okay, that sounds perfect.”
The walk through the hotel is mostly her asking about my evening and sharing more stories about her day at the pool. When we get inside the room, she pauses, letting go of my hand, and turns to face me. “Is it weird that I’m comfortable and nervous at the same time?”
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