Page 7 of Rumor Has It

He winks at me, and my blood boils. “I think I just did.”

“I’m not sure how he feels, Ridge.” I jerk my hat off, smoothing my hair. “I’d rather not tell him how I feel, than lose him forever because he doesn’t feel the same way.”

He studies me for a moment. “I will never understand that kind of reasoning. How will you ever know if someone loves you, if you’re not willing to open up to them?”

“If only I could.” Tears spring to my eyes. “I’m so afraid if I ever told him, his so-called friends would use it against us or worse, what if I’m nothing more than a friend to him.”

Ridge scratches his jaw. “Tell him … take the chance. You both deserve a chance at happiness, but until one of you says it out loud, nothing will ever happen. ”

“I promise, I’ll try but if I crash and burn, I’m holding you responsible.” I wrap my arms around him, hugging him tight. Only Boone knows me better. Well, there’s just one thing he doesn’t know better than Ridge.

He holds on to me like a lifeline, and most of the time, I think I am. “I don’t want you making the same mistakes I have.”

“You know, you could do the same. There’s no limit on love, brother.” I squeeze him tightly. Ridge has many layers. Most people haven’t a clue about the life he’s been living. I honestly don’t think I could do it.

“Don’t get it twisted, sista.” He pushes me away, pretending not to care. “My past is not yours, nor nothing like it.”

“Maybe not, but you know I’m as right as sweet tea and rain on a hot Southern summer day.” I smirk, proud of myself for making my point.

“You are, about everything but Boone.” He stares at me until I roll my eyes. “Tell him, or regret it for the rest of your life when something goes wrong.”

“Wow! Such a pessimist! You reek of bad decisions and contrition,” saying as I pinch my nose and wave my hand in front of my face.

He smacks his lips. “Mark my word, tell him or you’ll regret it for the rest of your life.”

I shake my head. “I promise, if the topic comes up, I’ll be honest with him.”

“You better, before it’s too late.” He nudges my shoulder. “Because trust me—life gets in the way, and second chances are few and far between for most people.”