Just Desserts (Perfect Dish Romances Book 2)

by Tawdra Kandle

  Revenge was not sweet. It felt like death, and it hurt worse than anything I had ever known.

  PART II

  Two Months Later

  “AVA! WHERE HAVE you been, lovely? I haven’t seen you in too long.”

  I turned, the smile on my face genuine for once.

  “Hey, Giff. I’ve been around. Just busy with papers and school, you know. And it seemed like every single girl in our dorm had her second-semester-freshman-year meltdown the same week. It’s been crazy.”

  He rolled his eyes. “Yeah, I hear you. Guys don’t do the meltdowns. They just up the partying. I had three cases of alcohol poisoning in two weeks. So then I had to do the dorm meetings and the PSAs on the dangers of over-indulging. Fun times.”

  Someone bumped into me, and Giff caught my arm to keep me from going over. The student union was crowded, and we were standing in the main flow of traffic.

  “Are you heading some place right now?”

  I shrugged. “I’m always heading some place. But nothing pressing. Just back to my room to work on a project and write up some clinical reports.”

  “Want to grab some coffee? I’m between classes. It’s not as good as Beans, but at least it’s caffeine.”

  I hesitated. My social life had been non-existent for the last ten weeks, mostly because I didn’t want to chance running into Liam any place. Hanging with his roommate seemed like a risky proposition, but at the same time, I didn’t want to hurt Giff.

  “Sure.”

  We stood in line to order and then waited off to the side of the coffee lounge until our drinks were ready.

  “No espresso?” Giff raised his eyebrows at me.

  “Not here. They do basic okay, but I don’t trust them with anything complicated.” I held up my iced latte. “Plus it’s finally getting warmer. I can drink it cold.”

  We threaded our way to the wall of windows at the back of the room and found a small round table for two. Giff angled his chair so that his long legs could stretch to the side.

  “So tell me what’s been going in your life. I haven’t seen you since your birthday party.”

  No, he hadn’t. Probably because I’d been in hiding that long.

  “Absolutely nothing. Like I told you, just academics and RA shit. I live a boring existence.”

  “I doubt that.” Giff tested his coffee and made a face. “I can’t imagine Jules letting you get away with being a hermit.”

  I glanced away, looking out the window and smothering a sigh. But Giff didn’t miss anything. “Uh-oh, what’s going on? Not roommate drama, I hope? You and Julia always seemed so close.”

  “No drama.” I shook my head. “You know I love her. And Jesse is awesome. But she’s just never around anymore. Even when she was dating—” I couldn’t bring myself to say his name. “Um, dating before, she at least came back to the dorm every night. And we still hung out a lot. But now she’s practically living over at Jesse’s house. I’m happy for her, really I am, but sometimes it’s … lonely.”

  “Well, we can’t let that go on. It just so happens that today is your lucky day.”

  I smiled. Giff was one of the most caring, compassionate people I knew. Just a shame he lived with a dickhead.

  “Oh, really? Why is that?”

  “Because Jeff and I are throwing a big welcome-back-spring party tonight. He’s got a townhouse off campus, and we’re going to put some sausage and burgers on his grill, buy some potato salad … a bunch of the guys went in on a keg and for those of us with more refined tastes, we’ll have wine. It’s Friday night, winter’s over and it’s time to celebrate. Be there by seven.”

  It was so tempting. The idea of hanging out with Giff and his boyfriend and eating summertime food sounded so much better than having leftover Chinese takeout in my silent dorm. But there was one big reason not to go, and I couldn’t even ask Giff if his roommate was going to be there. No one knew about Liam and me except for Julia … and she didn’t have the full story.

  “I don’t know, Giff. I really need to stay focused. There’s only another eight weeks left before finals. And I’m trying to get an internship here this summer.”

  “Awesome, but taking one night to let off some steam and just kick back isn’t going to kill you.” He reached across the table to cover my hand with his. “Remember, peaches, I’m in the same boat as you. No rich daddy is paying my bills. I’m looking for a job, too, so I can stay with Jeff and not have to spend the summer back in Podunk.”

  I laughed. “Peaches, huh …why do you call me that?”

  He cocked his head and gave me that irresistible Giff grin. “Yep. You’re sitting there in the sunlight, with that peaches-and-cream skin my mom used to talk about …so you’re peaches. And you’re coming tonight. Plan on it, or you’ll break my heart.”

  “Giff, you’re crazy. Break your heart. Sure.” I shook my head, trying not to remember Liam touching my breast, saying my skin was like milk. Or the warm white sand on a beach.

  “I’m a hundred percent serious. If you’re not there at seven, I’ll send Liam over to drag your ass to Jeff’s. That’s not a threat, it’s a promise.”

  My breath caught, and my face must have shown apprehension, because Giff narrowed his eyes. “What’s that all about? Since when are you afraid of Liam?”

  I managed a laugh. “Afraid? Don’t be ridiculous. I just don’t like the idea of being dragged anywhere. And you know after what happened with Jules and Liam …”

  “That’s water under the bridge. Julia’s okay with him. Why wouldn’t you be?”

  “I don’t know what you’re talking about.” I tilted my cup back, letting the last bits of coffee drizzle into my mouth.

  “Then prove it. Here.” He pulled out his phone and typed something into it, and then mine buzzed. “I just sent you Jeff’s address. Oh, and invite Jules and her lover boy, too. Everyone’s welcome.”

  “They’re going to a Phillies game tonight.”

  “So there’s absolutely no reason you can’t come over.” He glanced down at the phone. “I’ve got to mambo. Class in five.” He stood up, slung his bag over his shoulder and pointed at me. “I’ll see you tonight. Be there or beware.” He winked, laughing at his own word play and left.

  I dropped my forehead into my hands. Great. Now what?

  BY FIVE O’CLOCK, I had worked myself into what my mom would have called a tizzy. I tried to concentrate on finishing the documentation for my History and Systems of Psychology research paper, but the voices in my mind would not shut up.

  If I don’t go, Giff is going to figure it’s because of Liam.

  Giff won’t even notice if I’m not there.

  Maybe if Giff tells Liam he invited me, Liam won’t show up.

  And then Giff will be even more suspicious.

  What does it matter if Giff figures it out? It’s over. Liam Bailey was a momentary aberration in my life.

  I had just decided that I wasn’t going to the party when my phone signaled an incoming text. It was from Julia.

  Giff says you’re going to a party tonight. YAY! Have fun.

  I stuck out my tongue at the screen. Stupid Giff and his meddling ways.

  I don’t know if I’m going. He invited me.

  It only took a moment before she replied.

  Why wouldn’t you go? And don’t say you have homework. You just told me last night that you’re ahead in everything.

  I could have kicked myself for telling her that.

  It’s Friday night. You know how crazy the girls get. I need to stay close.

  As arguments went, it was weak. I’d never let being an RA keep me from doing whatever I wanted. Granted, my social life had always been laughable, but Jules and I had gone to the movies or dinner on many a Friday night. She was going to call me on it.

  Bullshit. Most of them will be out, too. GO.

  I decided if I just stopped answering her, she’d have to give up.

  I was wrong.

  Ava, if you don’
t promise me right now that you’re going, I’m telling Jesse I can’t go with him to the game tonight. I’ll drive home, and I will drag you over there. And then you’ll have pissed off Jesse, me, and the Phillies because you know they can’t win if I’m not watching.

  I groaned. What was wrong with these people? Couldn’t they just leave me alone to live my sad, pathetic, lonely life? I picked up my phone again and pounded in my answer.

  Fine. Whatever. I’ll go. But I’m not staying long. And I won’t have fun, because I’m only doing this so you and Giff will leave me the hell alone.

  I stomped over to my closet, pausing when I heard another text come in.

  That’s my girl. Can’t wait to hear about it. Love you, Ave.

  “Sure you do, That’s why you’re making me nuts.” I stumbled over a pair of Julia’s strappy high-heeled shoes that she’d left in the middle of the floor. Picking one of them up, I threw it hard against the wall. It gave me a little bit of satisfaction.

  I was tempted to wear the same jeans and t-shirt I’d had on all day, just to show that I really didn’t care and didn’t want to go to this party. But then I thought of Giff. I didn’t want to hurt his feelings by acting like a spoiled brat who didn’t get her own way. It wouldn’t hurt to look good. And if Liam were there, making him eat his heart out wouldn’t bother me a bit. Why it mattered was something I didn’t care to think about.

  I dug out the flouncy little black jersey skirt I’d bought on sale last fall. I’d only worn it once, to a party at Alpha Delt a few months ago. That night I’d paired it with a slouchy gray sweater, but now it was too warm for that choice. I flipped hangers until I found one of my favorite green tank tops. I wriggled out of my jeans and pulled the tee over my head, and then changed my bra for one with a deeper plunge between the cups. The skirt made my short legs look longer than they were, and the tank’s scoop neck showed off my deep cleavage. I smiled with satisfaction, remembering what Antonia used to say.

  “God gave us great boobs to make up for how short and stumpy we are.”

  I’d worn my hair up in a ponytail all day, so I let it down and brushed out the snarls. No sense in curling it if we were going to be outside anyway. But I gave in to vanity and touched up my make-up a little, adding some more blush, another sweep of black mascara and some lip gloss.

  My phone buzzed twice in close succession. I sighed and flipped it over.

  Take a picture so I can see what you’re wearing.

  I stood in front of the mirror and snapped a photo, then sent it to Julia.

  Why, don’t you trust me? And shouldn’t you be on your way to the game?

  Ooooooh, hot mama! Smokin’. No, I don’t trust you. Yes, we’re on the bridge.

  I smiled and flipped to the other message. It was from Giff.

  I hope you’re dressed and ready. You should be heading over here. Don’t make me send out the cavalry.

  Good golly, these people needed to get their own lives.

  I’m leaving in a minute. Thanks for tattling on me to Julia.

  See you in a few, peaches.

  JEFF LIVED A few miles off campus in a part of town that was just beginning to expand. The complex had a new feel to it, with pristine white wooden siding and dark wood doors and shutters. As I turned into the parking lot, I had the unsettling sense of feeling like I didn’t belong here. Having a party at a real house instead of a dorm or even on-campus apartment felt oddly grown-up. I wasn’t sure I was quite ready yet.

  I smelled the grill before I saw the crowd of people standing outside a corner unit. Giff waved to me and pointed to an open spot across the lot. I swung in, turned off the car and sat for a minute, just getting up the nerve to open the door.

  A knock on the window made me jump. Giff stood there, looking down at me with his eyebrows raised. I reached for the handle as he stepped to the side.

  “What are you doing, sitting out here? You do know we don’t provide car service, right? You actually have to get out, come over and socialize?”

  I glanced up at him, and he must have seen the dread in my eyes, because his voice softened.

  “C’mon, peaches. I know Jules and I pushed you to come tonight, but it’s because we love you, and we don’t want you hiding. I get that it’s scary to go into a new situation all by yourself.” He extended his hand. “But you’re not alone. I’m here for you.”

  I took a deep breath and laid my hand in his. He gave it a squeeze and pulled me to my feet. His eyes widened in approval as he took in my outfit, and he whistled.

  “Look at you! Sometimes I forget what a beauty you are under the jeans and sweatshirts.”

  “Thanks, Giff. You sure know how to make a girl feel special.”

  “It’s a gift.”

  We walked across the black top, and Giff led me to the grill, where Jeff and another guy I didn’t recognize were flipping burgers and drinking beer. I had only met Jeff once before, but he greeted me with a big bear hug.

  “Hey, Ava! I’m glad you could make it.” He waved the spatula in the direction of the other man. “This is Drew.”

  I smiled as Drew gave me a wave. Jeff lowered the lid on the grill and held up his clear plastic cup.

  “Want a beer?”

  Before I could answer, Giff slung his arm over my shoulder. “Nope, Ava’s a wine girl. I’m taking her inside to show her around, and I’ll get her set up.”

  “Cool. Come on back out when you’re done.”

  I followed Giff around the side of the building, past the keg, to a deck off the back. A group of girls stood near one side, chatting. I knew they were from Birch, but I didn’t know them by name. Giff made a few introduction as my stomach flipped and tightened. A party girl I was not. Meeting new people like this stressed me out.

  We moved into the kitchen, which was blessedly empty. The table was covered with bottles of wine, soda and liquors of just about every variety.

  “And here we have the bar. What can I pour for you? White wine or red?”

  I hesitated. Wine was the safe-Ava choice, something I could sip on for a while and then be able to drive home at the end of the night. But I was jittery in this house full of people I didn’t know, and suddenly I needed a little bit of liquid courage.

  “Umm …no. Something stronger. With—” I cast my eyes over the selection. “Vodka.”

  Giff grinned. “Okay then, you wild woman. How about a screwdriver?”

  “Sure.” Whatever that was. It sounded familiar; Julia might have drunk those once or twice.

  He opened the fridge to get the orange juice. “Drew’s a decent guy. He just moved down here from Trenton. He’s a cop.”

  “Oh, yeah?” I watched him shake up the juice, pour into a plastic cup and add a healthy slug of vodka. “Should I ask how you met him?”

  “Ha.” Giff added ice and handed me the cup. “Salut, my friend. No, he lives three doors down. But he doesn’t know anyone around here, and he’s only about a year older than us. So Jeff thought it would be nice if he met some people tonight.” He looked at me meaningfully.

  “Thanks, but no thanks. I’m not looking to get matched up, Giff.”

  He sighed, heavy on the dramatics. “I know, it goes against the master plan. But you don’t have to marry the guy, Ave. Just talk to him. You might find out you have something in common, and at least maybe you’d get out once a month to have a cup of coffee with a real live person.”

  I took an experimental sip of the drink. It was good. I could taste the vodka, but it wasn’t overwhelming. I drank a little more, and then drained the cup.

  “This is delicious. Thanks.”

  “Whoa there, kiddo. That’s strong stuff. Slow down.”

  I shook my head. “C’mon, Giff. Make me another one. I’m Italian, I can handle it.”

  “Okay, okay. You’re strong, I get it.” He replenished the juice and didn’t skimp on the vodka. “Here you are. Drink up, and then go talk to Drew. Get your flirt on, peaches.”

  This s
crewdriver packed a bigger punch than the first one had. I downed half of it, smiled and cocked my eyebrow. “Did you ever think I might be looking for more than just a flirt?”

  Giff leered. “Oooh, baby. I must have made that drink stronger than I thought. Well, go for it. It’d be good for you to go a little wild.”

  I raised my cup in a toast, feeling a little buzzed already. “That’s why I’m here, right?” I meant the words to sound ironic, but they may have been just a little slurred.

  “Exactly my point. You need to—” He broke off, looking over my shoulder. “Hey, Liam. I was wondering when you were going to get here.”

  My heart sped up, and I felt like the kitchen floor had tilted. I could feel him behind me, his eyes on me, but I was too chicken to turn around. I froze like a statue and kept my eyes on Giff.

  From the way he was looking from one of us to the other, I figured Liam must have been shocked to see me there. I could imagine the expression on his face all too well. Giff frowned at me as he picked up his cup of wine.

  “Can I get you something to drink?” He pointed to the table, watching Liam.

  “No, thanks. I’ll take care of it.”

  “Cool. Then one of you want to tell me what the hell is going on between you? The air just got real thick in here.”

  I couldn’t speak yet, but I lifted one shoulder in a shrug. I felt prickles down the back of my neck as though his fingers were walking down my spine, and I wanted to turn toward him. I wanted to forget everything that I had said or feared or suspected and just let him wrap me in his arms.

  “Leave it alone, Giff.” The tone of Liam’s voice made it clear that he didn’t want any argument.

  “Uh, maybe you’ve forgotten who you’re talking to, beetle. Leaving shit alone isn’t exactly in my personality.” Giff smirked, and he opened his mouth as though to say more. He was interrupted by the door opening as one of the girls from the deck leaned in.