Page 23 of Twelve of a Kind


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“I’ll take the kids over to Jenni’s so you can talk in peace.” Julia smiled as she kissed Sam.

As she walked out the sliding door with the kids, Shaun stepped in.

“Oh, good. You found Sam’s house.” He smiled at Zoey.

“You gave her my address, Shaun,” I said.

“What?” His brows furrowed as he pulled out his phone. “Shit. I did, didn’t I? Sorry about that, Zoey. Today has been a rough day.”

“It’s okay, Shaun. I get it.”

Shaun glanced at me with a smile and winked. He spread out the floor plan to the shop on the table, and Sam and Stefan looked at it. Zoey told them her plans, and when they were finished, Sam took the floor plan and rolled it up.

“I’ll get working on the design tomorrow and call you when it’s finished.”

“Thanks, Sam.” Zoey smiled.

“Once we’re finished, you’ll have the best bakery in Venice.” Stefan grinned.

“Thank you. I really appreciate all your help,” Zoey said as she grabbed her purse.

“That’s what we do.” Sam smiled.

Zoey and I stepped out the sliding door and headed down the beach back to my house.

“What did the mechanic say about Finnick?” I asked.

She let out a long sigh. “It’s time to bury him. It’s going to cost way more than he’s worth.”

“I’m sorry to hear that.” I opened the sliding door, and we stepped inside the house.

“Thanks. We had some good times.” A soft smile crossed her lips. “Did you decorate this place yourself?”

“No. My sister-in-law is an interior decorator.”

“She’s good.” Zoey smiled as our eyes stared into each other. “I should go.”

“You still owe me a thank you for rescuing you yesterday.” I smirked.

“I already thanked you, Carter.”

“Words don’t count, and they’re not good enough. Have dinner with me tomorrow night.” I walked to the front door and stood in front of it. “I’m not letting you leave until you say yes.”

She stood and stared at me, narrowing her eyes.

“Listen, Carter. I appreciate the offer, but I’m not looking for anything.”

“I’m not either. What’s the harm with two friends having dinner together?”

“Friends?” She cocked her head.

“Yes, friends. We met yesterday when I stopped and helped you on the side of the highway. I drove you to the car rental shop so you could rent a car, and I took you down to Sam’s house. I’d say we’re friends now.”

She laughed. “Fine. I’ll have dinner with you tomorrow night, but that’s all. Are we clear?”

“Very clear.” I opened the door. “Have a good night, Zoey. I’m sure I’ll see you tomorrow at the office.”

“Bye, Carter.” She stepped off the porch and climbed into her car.

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