Dare to Rock (Dare to Love 5)

“I was surprised to hear from you.”

Lola took a seat across from Avery on the outside patio. Good thing she was in a single chair, surrounded by white wrought iron tables, and not on the lounger where Avery and Grey had consummated their new relationship agreement. Avery chose that seat for herself.

She pulled a pillow over her lap and tucked one knee beneath her, attempting unsuccessfully not to think about that day with Grey. She flushed with heat at the memory of how she’d been naked on the terrace, her boobs and ass out for the world to see. Not the world, since nobody had a view here, but it had sure felt that way. She hadn’t cared.

After the way her father had ignored all that was important in Avery’s life and even Avery herself that day, all she’d wanted was Grey. Because he looked at her like she mattered. He touched her like she was his reason for being, and she knew if she dropped her walls, she’d admit she felt the same way.

She’d needed him then, wanting everything Grey had to offer her, too much to worry about propriety or being naked outdoors.

“Avery? Are you okay? Your cheeks are red,” Lola said, bringing her out of her fantasies.

“Just the headache,” she murmured, although in reality the headache was much better.

“Do you want to sit inside where it’s cooler?” Lola offered.

“Maybe in a little while. I’m okay for now, thanks.”

Lola nodded. “So, I guess you’re wondering why I called?”

Avery managed a nod despite the mild pounding in her head.

“To apologize. I would have called you sooner, but I know you had a lot going on with the paps and the other issues. I just … I was looking out for a friend, and I did it the wrong way.”

To the other woman’s credit, she looked genuinely contrite. And from what Avery knew of Grey, he wouldn’t pick a best friend who wasn’t a good person.

“I have older brothers who can’t manage to butt out of my life. And a sister who would do the same given the opportunity, so I get it. You’re his family, and I want you to know I respect that.”

Lola blinked, and Avery wondered if she was choked up. “You have no idea how relieved I am,” Lola said, her voice cracking, confirming Avery’s suspicions.

Avery leaned forward and met the other woman’s gaze. “I won’t hurt him without breaking my own heart in the process. I know that’s not everything you want to hear, but it’s the best I can do.”

“Nobody’s perfect, especially me.” Lola met her gaze, and Avery believed an understanding had been reached. “So how is the prom planning going? Grey told me all about it.”

Avery smiled, pleased Lola asked about her pet project. She’d been on the phone all week and met with so many different people, changing up the basic idea. She was excited to share it with Lola.

“It’s great. We decided to copy the model at Memorial Sloan Kettering Children’s Hospital in New York. Instead of teenagers only, we’re doing a party for all the kids in the cancer wing of the hospital. It’s a combination pediatric and teen prom, so everyone has something to look forward to.”

Lola smiled. “That’s so amazing. I really admire your dedication.”

“I …” Avery cleared her throat and decided to just say why she’d researched other hospitals and changed her plans. “I donated bone marrow to my half sister when I was nine. I know what it would have meant to her to have something fun on the horizon. Young or old, girls love to dress up, right? And the boys … well, they’ll deal.”

“I love the idea. I really do. And so will the kids.”

“I hope so because I had to call shops all over Miami who cater to all different ages, boys and girls, to get dresses and clothes. It’s been a huge undertaking, but I’m thrilled. The hospital finally gave the official okay yesterday.” She’d met with Dr. McCann, and he’d been so impressed with the amount of sponsorships he’d agreed on the spot.

“Anything I can do to help?” Lola asked.

Avery would never impose on one of Grey’s friends for an in-person appearance, but since Lola was asking … “Would you mind signing pictures or something for the kids? We could put them in the goodie/giveaway bags for the end of the night.”

Lola’s expression lit up at the idea. “I’d love to. Let me see what I can get my hands on. Text me the date, and I’ll make sure you have things in time.”

Avery clapped her hands in excitement, just imagining the kids’ expressions to have something signed by Lola Corbin.

They chatted for a little while longer before Lola rose to her feet. “I’m going to let you rest now, but thanks for seeing me. And for accepting my apology.”

Avery waved away her words. “It’s in the past.”

“Good. I hope we can try dinner, the four of us, again?”