Page 40 of Dreaming Without Heartache

“Heavy-like territory and headed for deeper waters.”

“Let’s not put our swimsuits on just yet. I’m enjoying the view from my lounge chair.”

I roll my eyes. “Okay. Well, tell me what Sam said.” I start the dishwasher and walk to the study, so the girls don’t catch my conversation accidentally. I’m not sure if Sam wants Olivia to know. We haven’t talked about what this is between us.

“She called Luke last night, so I overheard some of the conversation. Apparently, she likes you, and you’re a breath of fresh air.”

I like that description. “That’s sweet of her.” I sit down on the couch that has fond memories of the sexiest woman ever.

“How was the sex?” Steven cackles.

“Who said we had sex?” I don’t want to lie to him. I just want to see what he knows.

“Oh, please. I know you too well. That woman is gorgeous, and I saw the way you looked at her. Also, I could tell by the sound of her voice last night that you left your mark.”

I laugh. “Stop it.”

“Don’t pretend to be shy with me.”

“See you tonight, Steven,” I say sternly, drawing another cackle from him.

“Yeah, yeah. Just keep your secrets. Meanwhile, my sex life is booming.”

“That’s been obvious with your disappearance.”

“Can’t blame me for good taste.”

I can imagine his grin right now. “Six o’clock at the entrance. Don’t let Maisie down.”

“I’ll be there and prepared to talk to Sam.”

“Bye, Steven,” I say plainly even though I can’t stop smiling. I’ve missed him.

* * *

“I see Olivia!” Kara rushes toward the front gate. Maisie chases after her. I stop behind the girls as they gather in a group. Sam catches my eye. Her smile matches mine as if we are thinking the same thing.

“Fancy meeting you here,” she says.

“Lucky me.” I shrug, cocking my head to the side. Her smile is irresistible. I could look at it for the rest of my life. And that’s an interesting thought…

“Oh!” a voice says behind us. “I’m just in time for the lovefest. Can I get in on it?” Steven wraps his arms around both of us, garnering a giggle from Sam.

“You smell familiar.” Sam sniffs his shirt again.

“I borrowed Luke’s cologne.” Steven chuckles as he pulls back. “I couldn’t get him to join us, so I thought I’d bring a little of him with me.”

“Come on, you guys!” Maisie jumps eagerly in place. “I want to ride some rides.”

Steven grabs her up and spins her around. “Can I have the first one?”

Maisie giggles loudly as he puts her on the ground and steadies her. “Yes.” She exaggerates being out of breath while nodding her head.

“Well, let’s go.” I encourage everyone to move forward. I pay and then hand out the arm bands. The girls lead the way with Maisie peeking back to Steven. Once he said he wanted the first ride, he made her day.

“I want to do the Ferris wheel.” Sam leans into me and I stiffen immediately. Heights aren’t my thing.

“Maisie will ride with you.” I’m hopeful she’ll accept that suggestion.