I was hers? I’d never been claimed before. Hearing her say that, it was doing something to me. I loved the idea of someone wanting to protect me. Someone in my corner at all times. Someone who cared about me so much they had to show it.
But to have that person be Vera. I still wasn’t so sure that’s what I wanted. Clearly, I wantedsomethingbecause I had agreed to this insane plan to fake date to my best friend’s wedding. And my body had a way of reacting to almost everything she did.
“I appreciate your concern, but I promise it’s forgotten. We’ve all moved past it and grown since then. Please don’t treat her any type of way.”
“Fine. I’ll let it go. But if I see anything out of place, there’s going to be a problem.”
I nodded, placing a soft kiss on her cheek. “Understood. Let’s get back to the party.”
She smiled, following me back outside. When we found a seat by the pool, everyone was spread out. Daisy and Kaia were in the pool, as were Fallon and Mackenzie, being very close and adorable.
We had found two empty seats next to Drea and Blair, who were sharing a seat, of course. My friends could never keep their hands to themselves when their partners were around, but I loved to see it. I was a big supporter of love and I enjoyed seeing everyone find theirs. If only I could find my own happy ending.
Refusing to let those thoughts take over, I removed my cover and started applying sunscreen to myself. I jumped when I heard a silky smooth voice behind me.
“Need a little help, princesa?”
I swore it was like she was trying to get a reaction out of me. Like she knew how attracted to her I was trying not to be. I let my eyes flutter closed for a brief second, only because with theway I was facing, no one could see me. That smooth voice with that accent was causing my brain to short-circuit.
I turned around and smiled. “Please.”
I handed her the bottle of sunscreen and turned back around. The second her hands touched my skin, I took in a sharp breath. It wasn’t even cold, but I pretended to be. I couldn’t let her know how she was getting to me. Although, I was pretty sure she could tell.
“Cold?” she asked. I nodded in answer, glad she couldn’t see my blush. I could hear the smile in her tone. Damnit!
Her hands worked the lotion down my neck, causing goosebumps. Over my shoulders, causing a soft moan to slip out with how good it felt. Down my back, which caused me to gasp the lower she got. I knew we were putting on a show, but I was struggling to keep it together. Every touch was sending me closer to wanting to drag her inside.
“All done, princesa. You’re all lotioned up.” I bit my lip at her sultry voice in my ear.
“Thanks,” I rasped out, barely able to catch my breath. Fuck Drea for this pool party!
I turned around and put on a smile, which fell when I caught Drea and Blair staring at me. Blair with a smile on her face, and Drea with a raised eyebrow.
Clearing my throat I laid back in my chair. “You guys picked the perfect day for this party. It’s gorgeous out.”
“I know, right? I’m so happy you guys could make it.” Blair beamed as she settled into Drea’s side.
I froze when I felt a soft hand on my thigh. It was a normal touch for the show we were putting on, but it still felt way too intimate.
“That’s because you’re out here, babe. Wherever you are, it’s always gorgeous.” Vera’s smile was nothing short of genuine, and I truly believed her.
“Awww! That was too fucking cute!” Blair cooed.
“So, Drea. How’s Kaia’s office holding up? Any issues?” Vera turned her attention to Drea.
Drea shook her head. “Nope. No issues. She hasn’t had any complaints. I can’t thank you enough for that. I know Kaia said she was okay sharing an office, but she deserves her own space. And I know Daisy is grateful for it, too. They spend a lot of time in there.” Her smile was so bright and I matched it with my own.
Kaia and Drea had come a long way in the years I’d known them. Going from boss and employee, to Kaia walking out, to now being partners in the bookstore. A lot had happened in the past few years, with all of us. It was crazy to see where life had taken us.
“Thank you, Drea. It means a lot that you trusted me with something like that. I’m glad I could help. She’s a sweet girl.”
I placed my hand on top of Vera’s resting on my leg and gave it a light squeeze of encouragement. I didn’t know a lot about her, but I could already tell how she took pride in her work. She was good at what she did and deserved to be praised.
She looked down at the contact, then at me with a smile. That damn smile. I removed my hand when she stood up. “I’m going to go for a swim. Does anyone want to join me?”
“Babe?” Blair asked Drea.
Drea nodded. “Yeah, we'll join you. Cara?”
