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“Even I think moving in together after one month is fast, and I’m not straitlaced like Tate,” Lily stated, taking hold of Miranda’s hand. I sensed a stiff shift in the room as if I were a thief trying to steal a priceless porcelain doll.
“Hey, I just don’t see what the rush is. How much can you possibly know about each other after a month?” Tate questioned, a passionate quality in his voice.
Viv took his hand and gave it a squeeze.
“What?” His eyes cut to hers, then to Miranda’s. “I know you, sweets. You never rush into this kind of thing. You’re thoughtful… careful.”
Sweets?Every muscle in my neck tensed. I was about to give Tate a piece of my mind when Miranda spoke.
“That’ll be enough, Tate. Us moving in together is not up for discussion. It’s a done deal. So, deal.” Miranda shot an unyielding glance at Tate and Lily. “I mean, it’s a done deal unless Will changes his mind.” Her sapphire eyes flashed up at me.
I couldn’t help myself; I cupped the back of her neck and reeled her in for a real kiss. Her mouth opened, welcoming my tongue, and the world around us faded away.
Tate cleared his throat several times, but I didn’t stop until Miranda pulled back. One thing I had learned during our trip was that Miranda wasn’t shy about PDA. She’d kiss me anywhere and in front of anyone.
Miranda bit down on my lower lip, then released it. “Whoa. That was nice.” She exhaled, fanning her face. I loved how her cheeks flushed when she was aroused. “I’ll expect more of that tonight,” she whispered. Damn, I was glad to hear there’d be more.
“Lucky you,” Lily grumbled, arms crossed. “It’s rude to kiss in front of those of us who are unattached.”
Tate chuckled. “Now who’s the fuddy-duddy?”
Lily stuck her tongue out and disappeared down the hallway.
It seemed the previous tension had dissipated, much to my relief. It felt like a glimpse of what might ensue at my parents’ home.
Miranda casually chatted with Tate and Viv, then Lily returned with her handbag. Topics changed quickly: New Year’s Eve, some wedding details for this weekend, and other business issues I knew nothing about. It seemed I was the fifth wheel.
But I liked watching Miranda with her friends and appreciated how she’d touch my knee or hold my hand. It helped me relax, especially when Tate’s gaze would narrow in my direction. I wasn’t sure what his beef was, but I guessed it had to do with a protectiveness he felt for Miranda. I couldn’t fault him for that.
“We should go. I don’t want to be late.” Miranda stood. “Are you going to ride with us?” she asked Lily.
“Nah, I’m taking my car so I can escape when I want.”
I cringed, hoping Miranda wouldn’t feel the need to flee with Lily.
My stomach twisted, and a sudden uneasiness passed over me. I couldn’t lose the one person who saw me and not my money. I could be real with her, authentic, and not keep my shield up.
Even so, it didn’t mean she would want the drama that sometimes invaded my world. Having York in Carmel revealed an unpleasant part of being a St. James, a life Miranda may not desire. I couldn’t say I’d blame her, but it would fucking crush me if I lost her.
