“My reservation was private for a reason,” he clips.
“Huh, are you trying to hide?”
“What do you need?”
My body goes solid, and I swing my head between the woman and Miller, fear creeping in. My mind automatically assumes they have a history, and self-doubt takes over. I squirm to get away as his arms turn to vice grips.
“Baby, stop moving,” he grunts, adjusting his hip.
“I should leave you two alone,” I hiss under my breath, unable to disguise the jealousy.
His eyes fly to mine, examining my face and reading my mood. To my horror, his irritation fades, turning to hilarity right before he swipes his lips across mine again. “Jealousy looks sexy on you, baby, but no need. This is Renee. She works here and is also a friend of Darby’s.”
It all clicks, and I loosen his grip enough to fully turn to face her. “Renee? Wedding planner Renee?”
“Actually, I’m the event planner, but weddings fall under me.”
The tension leaves my body, and I sink back to Miller. “Thank goodness.” I think to myself but apparently say loud enough for them to hear.
Her smile falls and her eyes grow wide. “Oh my gosh, did you think… Oh no…”
“Renee, now would be the time to tell us why you’re creeping up on our dinner.” His annoyance returns.
“I came to meet Ashlyn.”
“You picked a hell of a time for a meet and greet.”
“I also came to tell you the outdoor band is about to begin, which means your slice of seclusion is—”
It takes a second to hit me, but I sit up, interrupting her, “How did you know I was Ashlyn?”
“I’ve heard all about you,” she replies a little too quickly. “Darby and Stephanie told me you were moving to town. And since Miller took over the renovations on your place…” she trails off and looks around uncomfortably.
The same eerie feeling from that night in Darby and Pierce’s kitchen comes to me, and I no longer have to wonder if I’m imagining things. Darby may not have known about my history with Miller, but she was trying to push us together.
I straighten, extending my hand. “It’s nice to meet you, Renee.”
She shakes my hand and her smile returns. “I’m not sure if Stephanie has told you, but I’m planning a small shower for Darby in a few weeks. We’d love it if you’d join us.”
“Another shower? Jesus, how many of those things does Darby need?” Miller grumbles.
I elbow him, shooting him a dirty look before answering her. “Stephanie hasn’t mentioned it, but I’d love to come.”
“Great.” She pulls a business card out and hands it to me. “Send me an email so I can get you an invitation. And, Miller, this is a private shower for Darby. She has more than enough for the baby, but this is to celebrate her. It’s also a surprise, so keep your mouth shut.”
“Who the hell would I tell?”
“No one. That’s the point. Don’t tell anyone.”
“I’ll promise to keep my mouth shut if you leave us alone.”
“Miller!” I screech.
“Don’t worry, Ashlyn. I’m used to it. Seems like Miller and Pierce are a lot alike. I am dismissed a lot when Pierce is around.”
“Yet, you’re still here talking,” he grumbles.
“Tata! Nice to meet you, Ashlyn. Look forward to seeing you again soon.” She gives the finger wave again, her eyes bright as she winks before walking away.
She’s out of earshot when I turn in his lap. “That was rude.”
“As she said, she’s used to it.” He dips low and kisses a trail along my neck.
“Wait.” I press against his chest. “It’s weird she knew it was me, who I am.”
He sighs, leaning back in his seat. “Not weird at all.”
“Do you get the suspicion there was some matchmaking going on?”
“There’s no suspicion about it.”
“What do you mean?”
“Darby thinks she’s slick, but I picked up on her play.”
It slams into me that our previous time together was isolated and free. The fact that it now involves family and friends sends me spiraling and rethinking my decision. “Miller, what I said earlier, I’m not sure going home together is a good idea. Maybe we should—”
“Stop denying this. It’s happening. Whatever is spinning in your brain, let it go. We’re going home together. We’ll take it at your pace, but tomorrow morning, I want to wake up with you.”
“Bad, bad idea.”
“Not to me. A night like we’ve had, I’m not letting you think your way out of it.” His phenomenal blue eyes glitter with the nightlight as music picks up from somewhere close.
My resistance and desire wage a war in my head, with desire clearly winning. Similar to all those months ago, I’m defenseless to the power this man has over me. The difference is that, this time, there’s a chance for something real.
I know the words are going to seal my fate, but they roll out of my mouth easily, “Okay, take me home.”