Their Masquerade (The American Soldier Collection 6)
Page 22
“Who keeps texting you?” Quentin asked. Axel was kind of surprised at his tone. They were all feeling a bit awkward right now. It was like everyone was walking on eggshells. Quentin and Mariah were shooting daggers at one another and he didn’t know what was going on. All he knew was that he wanted to spend as much time as possible with Mariah. She made everything feel right and perfect.
“Just some friends confirming plans.”
“What friends?” Quentin asked.
“Just some friends.”
“Who?” L.T. asked.
Mariah sat forward.
“Old friends of Michael’s. Friends of mine.”
They stared at her.
“Randy has been calling and texting since yesterday. He really wants to get together, so we’re trying to figure out our schedules for tomorrow.”
“Randy?” Axel asked.
“Not Rimarez?” Deacon asked, and she turned toward him.
“Yes.”
A series of sounds went through the porch.
“What? You guys have a problem with Randy?” she asked.
“Why does he want to get together?” Quentin asked.
“He was a big help after Michael died. We stayed in touch. He was a friend of Michael’s.”
“I don’t trust him. You shouldn’t go,” Quentin told her and Axel wasn’t surprised. Quentin had never liked Randy.
“That’s none of your business, Quentin. I don’t need your permission to date.”
“We’re just looking out for you,” Axel stated.
Mariah stood up.
“I know, and I don’t need any of you to do that. I sure as hell didn’t need it in Italy and I don’t need it here.”
“He’s wrong for you,” Quentin said, stepping forward.
“Oh, and you know what’s right for me? That’s kind of funny, don’t you think?”
“Why is it funny?” he replied.
“Because you don’t even know what you want or need for yourself. Stay out of my business, Quentin.” She started to head toward the door, but Quentin grabbed her arm and stopped her.
L.T. stood up, so did Axel and Deacon.
“Maybe I know what’s best for you,” Quentin stated, staring down into her eyes.
She laughed at him.
“You? I don’t think so. Just because we kissed today, doesn’t mean you have the right to tell me who I can and can’t date.”
“You kissed her?” L.T. asked.