Page 40 of Close to Heaven

“That’s what he has Smoky for.”

Dakota chuckled. “That’s not the same as a human being.”

“If Jax wanted company, I’m sure he’d have no trouble finding it.”

Dakota gave Avery a funny look, and Avery made a big show of looking at her watch. “Wow! Look at the time! If you don’t hurry and get ready, you’re going to be late for your date with Marcus.”

“Okay, but at least think about it,” Dakota said and then flounced out of the room.

Once Avery heard the bedroom door close, she breathed a sigh of relief. It was ironic that both Cody and Dakota had encouraged her to “hook up” with Jax. She wondered if Dakota would be as inclined if she knew about Avery’s burgeoning feelings toward him.

Fifteen minutes later, Dakota reemerged from the bedroom, dressed to kill.

“Wow, look at you!”

“Is it okay?” Dakota asked, smoothing her hands down the front of her jeans.

She’d changed from a sweatshirt and leggings into skinny jeans tucked into black boots and an ivory off-the-shoulder sweater. She’d also taken out her messy bun and brushed her thick, dark hair into a high sheen. She looked beautiful without trying too hard, but Avery thought her friend always looked beautiful.

“You look great, and I bet Marcus will think so too.”

Dakota sighed. “Why does dating have to be so nerve-racking?”

“It’ll be fun. Just relax.” Avery picked up Dakota’s coat and purse and handed them to her.

“Okay, but keep your phone nearby in case I have to call you for an emergency bailout.”

Avery laughed. “I will, but I doubt that will happen.” It had been a long time since she’d dated anybody new, but she could relate to how Dakota was feeling. After all, it was similar to how she’d been feeling around Jax lately.

Avery walked her friend to the door.

“Call Jax if you get lonely,” Dakota instructed.

“Okay,” Avery replied, though she had no intention of doing so. “Be careful driving.”

“I will.”

Avery stood in the doorway and waved as Dakota drove away. Then she went back inside and locked the door behind her. Placing her hands on her hips, she glanced around the empty cabin.

“Well, I guess it’s just me and me.”

Little did she know that she would soon have more company than she wanted.