His grin widens. “She’s good.”
I smile back. “You two are made for each other.”
I knew from Taylor that they’d been in afriends with benefitsrelationship pretty much since she arrived in Hope Creek a few months ago. For her, it had developed into more, but something held Seb back. He’d finally confessed his feelings for her after Sophie and Cade’s baby shower, and I couldn’t be happier for them.
“Thanks, Ash. And thanks for being there for her while I was busy getting my head out of my ass.”
“Of course. Taylor’s great.”
“Yeah, she is.” He slides a glass of red wine across the bar and winks. “Stay put until Ivy gets here. I don’t want you sitting alone.”
I roll my eyes, but he just chuckles before moving down the bar to serve another customer.
I sip my wine, watching the people around me as I wait for Ivy. I’ve always loved people-watching. Nash calls it being nosy, and maybe he’s right. I’m lost in thought when a hand lands on my shoulder.
“Hey, Ash. What are you doing here by yourself?”
I turn to see Taylor standing behind me.
“Hey.” I stand and pull her into a hug. “I’m waiting for Ivy. Have a drink with me?”
She steps back, glancing down at her yoga pants and tank top. “I’m not really dressed for the bar. I just came to see Seb.”
I smile. “Missing him already?”
Her cheeks flush pink. “Maybe.”
I’m genuinely pleased for her and Seb, but a small pang of envy creeps in. I want what they have, and right now, it feels further away than ever.
Taylor studies me. “You okay?”
“I’m good.”
Her frown deepens. “Are you sure? Did something happen with Ben?”
She knows about the kiss before Christmas, but nothing more. Ivy’s the only one who knew that things were starting to happen between us, and I’ve definitely not shared with anyone other than her that he’s married. I’d been careful to keep it from my brothers; they didn’t even know there was anything going on.
I glance toward Seb to make sure he’s out of earshot.
Taylor touches my arm gently. “I won’t say anything, Ash. If you need to talk–”
“He’s married.” I whisper the words, cutting her off.
Her eyes widen. “What?”
I sigh. “Ben’s married.”
“Oh my God, Ash. How did you find out?”
“His daughter told me.”
Taylor’s brow furrows in confusion. “His daughter? I didn’t even know he had a daughter.”
I let out a dry laugh. “Neither did I.”
“Jesus.”
I lift my glass to my lips, taking a long sip of wine.
