“We went a bit overboard, but we just couldn’t decide. Besides, we know you had your interview today. Thought you might need some comfort food,” Skye explained.
“Or just comfort,” Tess added. “How did it go?”
I waved my hand. “Not worth talking about.”
“But they didn’t question Josie, right?” Skye asked.
“No. It was just me.”
As I sat down, I became aware that everyone in the room was watching me. I narrowed my eyes.
“Wait a second... your visit isn’t just about the business plan, is it?”
Tess groaned, turning to Cole. “You gave us away? We told you we do our best work if he’s unprepared.”
Cole shook his head energetically. “No, I think he just put two and two together.”
“Cole here tells us he worries about you. You can’t focus,” Skye said.
Tess grinned. “He thinks you’re sick. We think you’re mooning over Josie.”
I blinked. “Mooning? That’s a low blow.”
Ryker held up a finger. “Um, no. Bringing Mom in would have been a low blow.”
“Language aside, it’s not all an act, is it?” Skye asked.
“Shit, if I’d known you’d go all gung-ho on him, I wouldn’t have asked for your help,” Cole said. I looked at him and Ryker. I was completely unprepared to answer my cousins’ questions.
“Let’s not be hasty,” Ryker said.
Tess cocked a brow. “Brother, I’m not sure you’d realize you’re in love even if it smacked you at the back of the head.”
He grinned. “Love is not my domain, but I can bring in my charm and humor to any situation. I’ve been told it helps relieve tension,” Ryker said.
“Why do you think I asked you over?” Cole teased.
Ryker clutched his heart. “Because my Wall Street expertise will be invaluable for the business plan.”
I took advantage of the fact that he mentioned that to switch topics. “That’s right. Tess, Skye, I thought you said you wanted us to look over your business plan together.”
“Yes, but that doesn’t mean we can’t multitask,” Tess replied.
I narrowed my eyes. “Business plan. Now.”
Skye grinned. “Your lack of answer is an answer anyway.”
Tess nodded. “We’re good with that. For now.”
By the time lunch finished, I was in a much better mood. It carried on into the evening. Josie was already at home when I arrived, on the terrace. She was lying on a blanket and had lit candles everywhere.
“What’s up with the candles?” I asked.
“I’ve read this book that says candlelight helps with relaxing. Was just testing it out.”
“What’s the verdict?”
“So far, so good.” She patted the blanket. “Come here. How did it go today?”