She acted like it was a burden, but I knew how much she loved her job. I’d tagged along a few times, and we’d always had a blast. She knew the best places to eat, the quickest ways to ingratiate herself with the locals, and she always had a good time no matter where she was.
Juliana and Alexis approached, each with champagne flutes in their hands, though one of Alexis’s was seltzer water. Juliana handed me one as Alexis handed another to Harper. I readily accepted, eager to get some alcohol coursing through my system.
Juliana wrapped her arm around me. “Happy birthday. This is going to be a great year for you—I can feel it.”
I laughed, hoping no one noticed the sweat beading along my forehead. My birthday always brought on memories I’d rather forget.
“I hope you’re right,” I said.
“I’m totally right. Plus—” She glanced around, taking in the decorations. “How can it not be when you start it off right.”
“Thank you for throwing me an amazing party. It’s all so beautiful,” I said, admiring the rose gold balloons and the banner that spelled my name in Swarovski crystals. I might hate my birthday, but I could certainly appreciate the effort she’d gone to. “Seriously gorg.”
“Here’s to thirty-five,” Harper said, raising her glass to toast. Alexis, Juliana, and I all joined in. “And starting the year off with a bang.”
We sipped our drinks, the bubbles dancing on my tongue.
“Speaking of a bang,” Alexis said, arching one perfectly sculpted eyebrow. “I think the hottie over there would be happy to help.”
I waited a moment then glanced in the direction she’d indicated. A tall, handsome man stood at the bar, sipping his drink. And when he saw me looking, he raised his glass and smiled. It was a smile that spoke of promise, of a fun night ahead.
“We’ll see.” I took another sip of my champagne.
I wasn’t interested. Standing there, I realized how much I wished Hunter were here. And then I was mad at myself for thinking that. I took another gulp of champagne, but I was going to need something stronger. Plus, a subject change.
I turned my attention back to Alexis. “How was your checkup?”
She was glowing, her baby bump prominently displayed in her fitted dress. She looked amazing—stylish and young. Pregnancy suited her.
“Good. Baby is doing well.”
“Still not finding out the gender, huh?” I asked, knowing how badly Sophia wanted a baby sister.
She shook her head, taking a sip of her water.
“Any guesses based on your cravings?”
“Everything’s different this time.” She leaned in, lowering her voice. “For one, I don’t remember being so horny last time.”
I laughed. “Maybe it’s because you’re with Preston now.” She might be pregnant, but they were still technically newlyweds.
She smiled, but she seemed preoccupied when she spoke. “Perhaps.”
I followed Alexis’s gaze to where Preston stood across the room, his eyes focused on her with laser-like intensity. You could feel the desire, the love, flowing between them. And I was hit with a pang of longing.
“I’m just going to—” she said, and I laughed, waving her off. I watched as she weaved through the crowd, intent on her husband.
I was happy for her, really. But I couldn’t help but want what she had too. Not the kids or the wedding, perhaps, but the companionship, the love. I’d watched her blossom under Preston’s attention. I loved their easy, playful banter. And I knew without a doubt that he absolutely adored her. That he would do anything for her.
Hunter’s face came to mind, but I quickly pushed the thought away, terrified.
When I turned back around, Juliana and Harper had been drawn into conversations. There were any number of people I could talk to—friends and business associates. But even as surrounded as I was, I felt alone. Lonely.
Because the one person I wanted to see wasn’t there.
Fucking birthday.It always stirred up feelings I’d rather ignore, memories I’d rather forget.
I downed the rest of my drink and headed toward the bar. The man who’d been watching me earlier was seated just a few stools down, and I could feel his eyes on me.
