Page 212 of Rookie Attraction

With that, Kuznetsov offers us each a hug and takes off into the crowd, head and shoulders above everyone else.

I down the rest of my champagne and Finn kisses the wine off my lips, sparking another question I need to ask.

“Elope or big wedding?”

Finn’s cheeks darken. “Small wedding on the farm?”

“In the summer.”

“Of course. And traditional vows.”

“You’ll obey?” I tease.

“I meant, no speaking our own.”

“Why not?”

“Are you serious? I’ll talk forever.”

“Finn.” I lean my forehead against his. “I wouldn’t have it any other way.”

Mats

I’m happy for Finn and Sel, but talk of engagements and weddings makes me queasy. Falling in love? No thanks. Did that once and never again…

Just as I’m reaching for a glass of champagne, my house manager, Janka, enters the room and motions for me.

“You have another guest, Mr. Makela, but he won’t give his name.”

The fuck?

“Thanks, Janka, I’ll take care of it.”

I take a sip of my drink, set it aside, and run a quick hand through my hair. The party’s even bigger than I expected, so it takes time for me to maneuver through the packed living room and down the narrow hallway to the front door. Where my latest “guest” is waiting. Seems like everyone I know is already here, so I don’t know who it could be. It becomes painfully clear when I wrench open the door and spot the figure standing on the steps. They raise their head and offer me a knowing smirk.

Fuck. Of course, it’s him.

“What are you doing at my house?” I snap.

I know exactly why he’s here, and I don’t care about the reason, I want him gone.

Karson rolls his eyes at me. Motherfucker.

“I was invited.”

“Not by me.”

“No shit. Is Sel here?”

I nod. “With his fiancé.”

“Pretty awesome news, eh?”

“You already know?”

“I helped Sel pick out the rings when we were in Cali at Christmas.”

Ah, okay.