Revenge With Benefits (Sweet Tea And Scandal 3)

“Whew.” Zoe blew out her breath as they exited Connor Properties, giddy at being free of Everly and her stupid revenge plot. “That was intense.”

The late November sun warmed her face and a light breeze brought the distant chime of a church bell. She linked arms with London, basking in their camaraderie.

“You know,” London said, “I almost feel sorry for her.”

“Don’t you dare,” Susannah scolded, coming up on Zoe’s other side. “She’s responsible for so much heartache. Frankly, I think we let her off too lightly.”

Over the last few days Zoe’s life had changed in ways she’d never imagined. Not only had she and Ryan made their way back to each other, but now she also had a group of friends she trusted. Starting today, she could stop fretting about what Tristan or Everly might be plotting to do next and start to focus on all the wonderful possibilities her future held.

“Where are we going to celebrate?” Harrison asked as the six of them reached the parking lot.

Paul was the first to shake his head. “Rain check. I’m in the middle of several investigations.”

Ryan rolled his eyes at his friend. “When aren’t you?”

With a shrug and a wave, Paul headed for his Land Rover.

Zoe watched him go before turning to Susannah. “What about you?”

“Jefferson and I have a counseling session in an hour. I want to swing by the campaign office and let Gil know how this went today.” She gave Zoe a quick, hard hug. “You four have fun.”

Zoe suggested the rooftop bar at the Vendue and fifteen minutes later they were seated at a table with great views of historic downtown Charleston and the Cooper River. They’d just finished ordering a round of cocktails when Zoe noticed the large diamond sparkling on London’s left hand.

“Are you two engaged?” Zoe asked, grabbing her friend’s hand and inspecting the engagement ring.

“It must seem fast,” London said even as she beamed at Harrison.

“I’m a race car driver,” Harrison countered. “Fast is what I do.”

“What about you two?” London countered slyly.

Ryan grinned. “I haven’t asked her yet.”

Yet?

The ink was barely dry on her divorce. It was too soon to think about getting married again. Wasn’t it? Zoe’s heart skipped at the way Ryan was gazing at her.

“It’s been less than a month,” Zoe protested but her objection lacked strength.

“Well, what are you waiting for?” Harrison asked.

Ryan pulled something out of his pocket. “I wanted the whole revenge plot problem behind us.” He scowled at their companions. “And a little privacy. But after what we’ve all been through together, maybe it’s right that you two are here.”

“What are you talking about?” Zoe clapped her hands over her mouth as Ryan slipped from his chair and knelt beside her. “Ryan...” His name escaped her on a low moan.

“Zoe Alston, woman that I love.” He paused to grin at her and then, with a dramatic flourish, he popped open the box in his hand. “Will you marry me?”

Zoe’s gaze remained locked on Ryan’s face as she nodded. Her heart was pounding so hard she thought it might break out of her chest. Never had she imagined it was possible to be this happy.

“Yes. Oh, yes.” She leaned forward and wrapped her arms around his neck. “I love you so much.”

And then they were kissing and Ryan was sliding the ring on her finger while London and Harrison showered them with congratulations. A bottle of champagne appeared at their table with four glasses so they could toast to love, engagements and the future.

While the men talked football and car racing, Zoe held Ryan’s hand and noticed London’s fingers were also linked with Harrison’s. Luck, fate or some sort of miracle had transformed something that had started so wrong to end so right.

Catching her eye, London leaned in and surprised Zoe by whispering, “I never imagined I could be this happy.”

Zoe’s throat tightened at the catch in London’s voice and she nodded her agreement. “It’s pretty amazing how wonderful I feel right now, too.”