Total pages in book: 23
Estimated words: 21156 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 106(@200wpm)___ 85(@250wpm)___ 71(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 21156 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 106(@200wpm)___ 85(@250wpm)___ 71(@300wpm)
“Better organization?” I suggest, straight-faced.
“A break,” he counters, tapping the end of my nose. “And some adult conversation.” He sits next to me on the sofa and wraps his arm around my shoulders. “My brother texted me,” Jay says casually. “He wants to meet you. He said, and I quote, ‘Bring your girl, and let’s do a double date at Rosalie’s tomorrow at seven.’”
He watches me, waiting for my response.
“I’d love to meet your brother,” I blurt out before I’m able to change my mind. This relationship is moving at warp speed, and I’m going to just hold on for the wild ride.
I don’t freak out until we’re in the car on our way to Rosalie’s.
“What if your brother hates me?” I ask, clutching my purse like a life raft.
“He won’t,” Jay promises, one hand on the wheel, the other finding its way to my thigh. “Or I’ll kick his ass.” He gives my leg a little squeeze.
My nerves spark and buzz as Jay pulls the SUV behind the diner. He’s out in a heartbeat, opening my door, his hand warm and steady as he helps me step down. My fingers tangle with his, and suddenly, it’s like every hair on my arms is standing at attention.
We walk together into Rosalie’s Diner, and the warmth and noise hit me all at once. Everything is Texas small-town perfect with whitewashed brick, retro booths with fat red vinyl cushions, and a chalkboard menu hanging on the wall. It’s packed, but Jay, always prepared, called ahead to reserve a booth. The waitress smiles at us and points to the last booth in the back. “Your table is ready. Have a seat, and I’ll be right over.”
“Thanks, Susan.” He walks me straight to a reserved table, and we slide into a red booth. My heart spins faster than ever as I wait for his brother to arrive.
At first, I don’t see anyone who looks like Jay’s twin. Just as I start to relax, a woman with glossy brown curls and a boho dress stops next to our booth. She’s gorgeous, curves for days, and her eyes light up when she sees Jay.
“Hey, stranger!” she calls, voice low and musical.
Jay stands and gives her a quick hug, then gestures for me. “Nadia, this is Poppy Lane. Poppy, this is Nadia Mirewood, the woman who finally tamed me.”
Poppy laughs, a sound so big and infectious. “Oh, I like her already. Anyone who can keep you out of trouble is a friend of mine.”
She turns her gaze on me, and I immediately know we’re going to be good friends. She radiates warmth and intelligence. “Hi, Poppy,” I manage, sticking out my hand. She shakes it firmly, then gives my shoulder a little squeeze.
“Jack should be here any second,” she says. “He dropped me off while he searches for a parking spot.”
I glance up from the laminated menu and get the shock of my life. Jack Vale is… well, Jay. Same broad shoulders, same dark hair, same high cheekbones and impossible brown eyes. But where Jay is relaxed and rumpled in a soft black Henley, Jack is in a blue dress shirt and slacks, clean-shaven and sharp as a razor. His presence screams confident, intimidating cop energy, but his smile makes his whole face soften.
He walks straight to our table, slides in next to Poppy, and gives her a quick kiss. Then he turns his attention to me. For a second, I hold my breath, waiting. Then he grins and says, “You must be Nadia. You’re way too pretty to waste your time on my ugly ass brother.”
“I look just like you, asshole,” Jay grumbles and wraps his arm around my shoulders.
Poppy snickers and winks at me. “Ignore these guys and tell me all about you.” I almost choke on my water. The spotlight is on me.
Jay squeezes my thigh under the table. Subtle, but not really. It’s like he’s reminding me, “You got this, babe.” Except he’s also smirking because he knows exactly how flustered I get when people stare.
I try to play it cool. “There’s not much to tell, honestly. I teach third grade, I have a tragic addiction to caffeine and true crime podcasts, and I’m still recovering from an incident with a rogue glitter bomb a few weeks ago.” I pause for dramatic effect. “And I’m currently being held hostage by this man and his Frenchie. Send help.”
Poppy barks out a laugh that makes everyone around us look. “Oh, you’re my people. We need a girls’ night ASAP. I have stories about these two that will make you—” Her husband wraps his arms around her and pulls her close for a kiss.
When he releases her, he whispers against her lips, “Don’t tell all our secrets.”
Poppy bats her eyelashes at him. “I’m not going to tell all.” Then she glances over at me and mouths, “But most of it.”