“I believe he does.”
“He better.”
Zoe gave a slight smile. Then she motioned for the door. “Should we head out with the others?”
Jackson kissed her forehead. “Let’s go.”
As they both entered the hallway, the rest of the group met them.
“Did we decide on a place?” Jackson asked.
“I’m thinking Italian,” Bailey said.
“What about the new Mexican restaurant?” Noelle chimed in.
Zoe listened to the chatter, but only adjusted the strap on her purse. Roslyn appeared to mix well with the band, since she appeared to include her opinion. Alex came closer. She knew his presence well. When heat traveled up Zoe’s back, she licked her lips. Though Jackson knew about them, she wouldn’t turn and kiss Alex in front of him.
“Where do you want to eat?” His whisper in her ear made the hairs on the nape of her neck rise.
“Not sure.” She took a step back, inhaling his fresh cologne.
“Save me a seat next to you?” he asked, sounding hopeful.
“Maybe.” She twisted her lips to hide her grin.
“You guys ready?” Tommy asked. Then he took Noelle’s hand.
Zoe nodded.
“We’re following them in my car,” Roslyn said.
Alex followed beside her, but then he joined the rest of the band on the bus. Zoe opened the passenger door of Roslyn’s car. She paused, noticing her best friend staring at her.
Roslyn raised an eyebrow. “What was that?”
“What?” Zoe asked.
She motioned towards the bus. “You two?”
“It’s still new, but... I told Jackson.”
Roslyn’s eyes widened. “What did he say?”
“He knows it’s my decision,” Zoe said.
They settled inside Roslyn’s car, and her friend started the engine.
***
Alex rested his hand on Zoe’s knee at the restaurant table. Her friend, Roslyn, sat on the other side of her. Jackson sat at the head of the table, next to him. Bailey, Noelle, and Tommy sat opposite. Alex wouldn’t give him and Zoe away unless she wanted him to.
He knew she cared about her brother’s opinion. Alex even knew of the loss of their older brother. While he respected her wishes, he couldn’t deny the electrical jolts in his body when she was near.
Zoe cleared her throat, rubbing the side of her neck. He watched from his peripheral as she brought her hand down and clasped his on top of her knee.
“I’m thinking an after party next time,” Roslyn said. “You guys were amazing tonight!”
Jackson smiled. “Thanks. We appreciate you coming.” Then his eyes diverted to his sister. “When are you heading back?”