Best Laid Plans (The Best Girls 4)

“Are you sure? I think Josh told Charlie he loved her at the Christmas party.”

“Nope. Charlie said they both agreed to ‘work on it.’ But you can’t tell anyone. Emily was sworn to secrecy.”

“Then why did Emily tell you?”

“Well, everyone knows in matters of life and death, the secrecy clause has loopholes.”

“And this is a matter of life and death?”

Grace speared him with a furious gaze. “You don’t think Charlie and Josh’s future and the future of Jace and Chloe is a matter of life and death?”

“Whatever, Grace.”

“Don’t roll your eyes at me. Just remember, we started Phase Two at your request.”

“Don’t remind me.”

“But that’s not all we found out. Charlie had one of Collin’s cards.”

“She can’t possibly be interested in that jerk.”

“Well, she couldn’t explain why she had his card. I think it indicates at least a passing interest.”

“What are you planning to do about it?”

“We’re waiting to see. If we need to, Olivia can take him out of play.”

“Girls are scary.” A violent shiver ran up his spine.

“We’re not planning to kill him.”

“Don’t tell me. I want to be able to claim ignorance,” he said, with his fingers in his ears.

She laughed, bopping him playfully on the top of his head. “You haven’t even finished your part yet. Josh hasn’t bought a ring, has he?”

“He’s supposed to go shopping today.”

“You’re not going with him?”

“Don’t you think that would be a little strange? Two guys shopping for rings together?”

“Awww... Are you worried about your manly image?”

“I gave him the pictures I got from Emily. He can handle it from here.”

“I don’t know.” Grace chewed on her fingernail. “Maybe I should go with him.”

“He’s fine. He doesn’t want any help.”

JOSH STARED AT THE glass case full of engagement rings, wishing he’d brought someone along for a second opinion.

“Can I help you?”

asked a saleswoman with long blond hair and perfectly applied makeup.

“Uhmm, I need to buy an engagement ring.”

“Okay, you’re at the right place. What style did you have in mind?”