Page 92 of Close to Heaven

“Don’t be. It’s not your fault. Besides, Cody doesn’t seem bothered by it.”

“That’s because he’s already had time to get used to the idea.”

“Unlike your sister.”

He took a deep breath and exhaled slowly. “Yeah.”

“Maybe we should just tell her. It’s probably better than her finding out like Cody did.”

“I can hear you talking,” Cody called from the kitchen. It sounded like his mouth was full.

“You better not be eating all my toast!” Jax yelled.

“Well then, get in here before it’s all gone.”

Jax shook his head. “Once everybody knows, we’ll get no privacy. Zero.”

She tilted her head and smiled at him. “Will it really be that bad?”

“Yum. These eggs are delicious,” Cody called.

“I’m gonna kill him,” Jax said.

She pressed her lips against his, hoping to distract him. Apparently, it worked, because he looped his arms around her waist and deepened the kiss. It was brief but potent, and she felt unsteady when he let go.

“We might as well finish eating,” he said, sounding resigned.

She nodded, and he took her hand and led her back into the kitchen.

Jax sat down at the table while Avery went to the refrigerator and took out some more eggs.

“You don’t have to do that,” Jax said.

“We have company, and I want to,” she said gently yet firmly. Now that Cody knew their secret, she felt oddly relieved. Besides, she liked him, and she didn’t want him to feel unwelcome.

“So, what’s this problem you wanted to tell me about?” Jax asked Cody.

“There’s another water leak in Above the Clouds, and the guests aren’t too happy about it.”

“Did you offer to move them?”

“Yeah, but they insisted on speaking to the manager first.”

“When did this happen?”

“I got the call around six o’clock last night. I went over and patched it up, but I don’t think it’ll hold.”

“Did you call a plumber?”

“I wanted to talk to you first, but I couldn’t get a hold of you.”

“I’ll go talk to them after I get dressed.”

“Good idea. I’m sure Avery doesn’t mind you prancing around in your boxers, but our guests might not appreciate it.”

Avery came over with the pan of scrambled eggs and dished some out for both brothers.

“Thank you, darlin’,” Cody said and winked at her.