Simply Scandalous (Simply 2)

Catherine rolled over and glared at her brother-in-law who stood in the doorway.

“Go away,” the sisters said at the same time.

“You know you only say that when she’s around,” Kane said to his wife.

Catherine grinned. “At least I make you suffer, too, McDermott.”

“Before you two get started, can I get a word in?” Kayla asked.

Catherine sighed. She’d met Kane right after he’d slept with and used her sister. At least that’s what Catherine had believed, and though Kane had proven himself since, the sparring and bickering from the early days remained a part of their relationship. Catherine held a grudging respect for the detective—stemming from his devotion to her sister—though she’d never admit it aloud.

“Go ahead,” Catherine said to her sister.

Kayla turned to her husband. “Cat needs a place to think…”

“I do?”

“And she’s going to be staying here until she settles some things.”

“She is?” Kane asked. From the narrowing of his eyes, the thought didn’t please him.

Catherine grinned. “I am,” she said and folded her arms across her chest. Until Kayla said the words, Catherine hadn’t realized how badly she needed her sister’s advice or how much she didn’t want to be alone with her thoughts.

She glanced at Kayla, tucked safely under the covers, her large stomach protruding through the sheet. She was due in a matter of weeks and there was no place else Catherine wanted to be when the baby came.

Kane walked over to his wife’s side. “Don’t you have work at home?” he asked Catherine.

“I can drive home, get my laptop and play catch up from here. No parties until next weekend. Our new manager is handling Saturday’s affair. I’ve got Sunday. So, it looks like I’m here to stay.”

“Swell,” he muttered, only to be greeted by Kayla’s narrowed gaze. “I mean, make yourself at home. But no redecorating while you’re here.”

“A man who doesn’t like animal prints has a fundamental problem relating to life,” Catherine told him. “They add warmth…”

“That’s what live pets are for,” Kane muttered.

“All my accessories are fake. I’m a strong believer in animal rights. But if it’s a pet you want, I can stop by the pound…”

“I’m leaving,” he said to both sisters.

Catherine grinned. “That was the plan. But seriously, Kane, thanks for the place to stay.”

“You’re welcome.” He graced Catherine with a genuine smile.

“I appreciate it. I could really use the company,” Kayla said. “And I love you.”

Catherine smiled. “Love you too, sis.”

“Stay as long as you want. Just keep out of my way,” Kane muttered.

“He doesn’t mean that,” Kayla assured her.

“Sure, I do, sweetheart… when I’m alone with you,” he said in a deeper tone, one a husband reserved for his wife.

To Catherine’s surprise, a pang of envy darted through her heart. She’d spent a lot of time with Kayla and Kane, happily married couple. Through Thanksgiving, Christmas, and other assorted holidays, Catherine was thrilled her sister had found love, and acceptance despite Kane’s outwardly surly attitude.

But she’d never envied what Kayla and Kane shared. Never thought she wanted it for herself.

Until now.