Page 112 of That Rush

Adrienne’s gaze moves between us, understanding arriving quickly. “Fair. Dinner guest with no voting obligations.”

“And veto power over future invitations,” Paige adds.

“Now you sound like legal counsel.”

“I work with the public. I understand the value of clear policies.”

The conversation moves on without anyone making the correction bigger than it needs to be. Paige’s hand relaxes against my thigh, and her fingers lace through mine.

After dinner, we move into the living room while Mom brings out brownies and insists she does not need help. Josie and Poppy sit together with their books. Silas toddles between Dad and Scotty, delivering the same wooden block to each of them as though they are stationed along an assembly line.

Paige sinks into the cushion beside me.

“You caught that,” she murmurs.

“I promised I wouldn’t steer.”

“You didn’t.” Her thumb moves over my knuckles. “Thank you.”

Her body eases against mine, warm and willing, with her hand still holding mine. She leans more fully into my side, and I let myself believe it means she wants to stay.

By the time the brownies are gone, Paige is still tucked against me with her legs angled toward mine.

Mom starts collecting dessert plates, and Paige lets go of me to stand.

“Tell me where these go.”

“You’re a guest,” Mom says.

“I’m capable of carrying dishes while visiting.”

“She’s going to win,” I tell Mom.

“I know. I raised one just like her.” Mom hands Paige two more plates and points toward the kitchen. “Aiden can show you where everything goes.”

Dad snorts from his chair. “Subtle, Deven.”

“I have no idea what you mean.”

Paige looks at me. “Does your mother usually arrange private kitchen assignments?”

“Only when she likes someone.”

Mom gives me a warning look. “I arrange help where I need it.”

“With an empty dishwasher?”

“Go away, Aiden.”

Paige carries the plates into the kitchen, laughing. I set the brownie pan on the island while she opens the wrong cabinet.

“Plates are on the other side.”

“Your mother said you were showing me.”

“I got distracted.”

She glances over her shoulder. “By the deeply erotic sight of me loading a dishwasher?”