AllFreeNovel
Share Us
“Yeah. It’s fine.” She rubbed a hand over her forehead. “Buying a hotel sounds like a big thing. Why didn’t either of them tell me? I mean, I know Ridge didn’t owe me an explanation, but I feel like I know everything he’s into. And while Ridge didn’t owe me an explanation, I feel like David did.” She shook her head. “It’s stupid. I’m just feeling a little left out of the loop.”
Blake rubbed her arms and kissed her forehead. “I’m sorry. You’re right. David should have told you, even if it was a business deal.”
“But we know there were other important things he wasn’t telling me about, like his interest in other women.”
“Stop right there. Don’t let that bother you. I know it’s easier said than done, but everything about that situation was wrong. It was all about him and not about you at all. You don’t deserve that. Period.”
Everly’s aversion to being seen and noticed wasn’t a confidence issue, and Blake had hoped the breakup with David wouldn’t make her second-guess herself. Now, she was doubting her worth because the people she trusted weren’t open and honest with her, but he would be her rock–her constant supporter and confidant.
“Thanks. I know that.” Everly looked up at him with tired eyes. “I’m glad you don’t keep secrets from me. It’s nice to know we’re always on the same page.”
Blake perked up. “Speaking of pages, I finished the book.”
That bit of news seemed to bring a spark back to Everly’s eyes. “Oh, no. What did you think?”
“I’m totally shipping Cassie and Gunner,” Blake said. In truth, the book had been fun to read. It was light and interesting.
“You’re making fun of me!”
“I’m not! I really enjoyed it. People are going to love your books. You could be a huge deal.”
Everly shook her head. “I don’t want to be a big deal. I’m just having fun.”
“Still, you’re a master storyteller. I was hooked.”
Resting her head on his chest, Everly let out a heavy sigh. “Thanks. That one is my favorite. I got the inspiration from a couple at the ranch, and I just started spinning a fictional love story for them. It was fun.”
Blake rubbed circles on her back. “I’m proud of you. You’re good at so many things, but I’m especially glad you’re so naturally kind. The guests at the ranch love you. I hear them talking about you sometimes, and it makes me especially grateful to have you in my life.”
She lifted her head and brushed a hand over his cheek. “I love you. I don’t think I could say that enough.”
The words sent a jolt of joy straight to his heart every time he heard them from Everly. “I love you too. More than you know.”
Everly covered her mouth as she yawned. “Would it be okay if I took a rain check on movie night? I’m really tired.”
“Sure. I’ll take you home. You ready for the wedding next weekend?”
“I’m ready for it to be over, and I hate to say that. I love Megan, and I’ve been waiting for her big day for so long, but I’m exhausted.”
Everly worked hard at the venue, and her work showed in the amazing weddings she put together. The tradeoff was that the heavy workload led to exhaustion. Ava had mentioned hiring an assistant, but they hadn’t filled the position yet.
“No worries. We can watchShe’s All Thatanother night.”
Everly grinned and slipped her hand into his. “Thanks. I promise I’ll be my old chipper self after next weekend.”
Leading the way back out to his truck, Blake remembered the phone call he’d gotten from Renee earlier in the week. If his surprise for Everly went as planned, she may have something else to be excited about next weekend.
CHAPTER TWENTY-SEVEN
Everly
Everly scanned the reception hall. Megan and her new husband chatted with a table of older people. Linda was talking to a couple of the waitstaff, and Ava was chatting with Megan’s parents. The wedding had been beautiful in the new chapel, and there had been more than a few sniffles. Everly hadn’t been able to hold back the tears. She’d snuck back into her office to freshen up as soon as the photographer finished with the wedding party after the ceremony.
Where was Blake? She’d had eyes on him just a few minutes ago.
“Hey,” Blake said from behind her.
Everly jumped, clutching the V neck of her dress. “Blake, you scared me. I was just looking for you.”
