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***
Days later, Belle parked in front of the large home among the several other vehicles already in the driveway.
“Nice house,” TJ commented from the passenger seat, the edges of his mouth turned up like he knew something she didn’t.
She swallowed her unease, and shut the engine off. Getting out of the car, she pocketed the keys in her jacket.
“I forgot to tell you the woman we helped, Mia, will be here tonight.”
TJ snapped his head towards her, before looking away and shifting on his feet.
“Is that okay?”
“Yeah.” His voice cracked. “Why wouldn’t it be?”
“Why are you acting all antsy?” What secrets are you keeping from me now?
He sighed and tipped his head up. “I’m not. I just don’t like surprises—you know that.”
She nodded. “You know you can tell me anything, right?”
TJ smiled, which set her somewhat at ease. “I know, sis. Now, quit your stalling and let’s go see your boyfriend.” He started walking across the lawn.
“You little shit,” she grumbled.
The smell of wood smoke and the sound of laughter drew them around to the backyard. TJ walked by her side as they approached the group of friends.
“Belle!” Remy called, waving her over.
TJ’s steps faltered as they grew nearer. She looked back at him questioningly. Fear flashed through his expression as he eyed the small crowd.
“It’s okay. I’m sure they don’t bite,” she joked.
He cleared his throat, eyes widening.
“Hey—” a man started to say.
“Andre!” the woman she recognized as Mia growled and sprouted a flurry of Spanish at him as she tugged him away from the group.
Everyone watched them go until they were out of sight.
“What was that about?” the man asked. Surely, with such a similar face and build, he had to be Bently’s brother.
“I don’t know. But I’m sure Dre deserved it.” Remy pulled her gaze back to Belle. “I’m so happy you could make it.”
“Sorry we couldn’t do the hayride. My shift only ended an hour ago,” Belle explained.
Remy waved her off. “No problem at all. I’m just glad you could come. Let me introduce you. This is my husband, Mikel. You’ve already met Lyra.” She pointed to the little girl on her husband’s shoulders.
“Hi again, Lyra.” Belle gave the little girl a high five.
“Hi!”
“And you got to know Phoenix. And this handsome man must be your brother.” Remy motioned to TJ.
“TJ, good to see you again,” Bently said with an easy smile as he stretched out his hand to her brother. Her heart fluttered. Damn, she needed to get a hold of herself. Heart palpitations could be a sign of a serious medical problem. But they only happened in his presence, which was scarier than the potential medical issues.
“You too.” TJ’s voice smoothed out.
