Need Me (Mess with Me 3)

But Casey is chattering away before

I have a chance to deflect.

“Ari is my roommate! I mean she was, before I moved into the penthouse with Andre.”

“Is that right?”

“Yes. I loved living there. I still miss it. I miss you. I miss Oreo.” Casey wraps her arms around me and I can’t help returning the hug. She’s so happy it’s contagious.

Vin watches me the entire time.

“Oreo?” he asks lightly.

“Her dog! She’s the cutest thing, you have to see!” Casey pulls out her phone and starts sliding through her pictures.

I close my eyes. “I’m sure he – I’m sorry, what was your name again?”

Vin’s jaw moves slightly, the only sign that he’s bothered. “Philippe Lavin. My friends call me Vin.”

“Well, Vin. I’m sure you don’t want to see pictures of my dog.”

“I love dogs. Besides, it’ll be good to get to know you better. We’re going to be working so closely these next few weeks.”

“We are?”

“Of course.” He smiles down at Casey. “Your friend has already agreed to help me plan the bachelor party.”

This conversation is making my head hurt. “Wait, I agreed to do what now? Why would I be planning the bachelor party?”

Vin’s smile spreads even wider. “It’s actually a joint bachelor and bachelorette party. Since Andre insists on not being separated from his true love for even one night.”

His words are kind but the saccharine sweet way he’s speaking tells me exactly what he thinks of that idea.

Casey grins up at Andre. “Your brother is so jealous. He just wants to make sure I don’t have a stripper.”

Andre scowls. “You don’t need a stripper. I’ll strip for you.”

Vin ignores them. “Since the parties have to be at the same time and at least partially overlap, we have to plan them together.”

Casey nods. “He’s the best man. And you’re the maid of honor.”

“That’s right,” Vin singsongs. “Casey, since you have your phone out, can you send me Ariana’s info? You know, for the planning.”

It’s my turn to narrow my eyes.

“Of course. I’ll text it to you, Philippe.” Casey starts typing and then takes a deep breath. “We’re so lucky to have you guys helping us. So many details.”

“You don’t have to worry about anything except making my brother the happiest guy alive. Ariana and I will take care of everything.”

Casey and Andre drift away to mingle with the other guests. I try to follow but Vin moves so he’s in my way. There’s not much I can do without causing a scene and I’m not going to make a mad dash for the door in front of all these people. Especially not wearing heels.

“Have you put any spells on anyone lately?”

I shake my head, not willing to be drawn into our old chemistry. It’s been two years and yet he still has this pull that makes me want to jump in his arms. It’s infuriating. Especially when he doesn’t seem all that bothered by the fact that I’m here. It’s more like he’s amused at the turn of events. Worse, it feels like he’s laughing at me.

“You look beautiful, Ariana. You have roses in your cheeks when you’re pissed off.”

My hands rise to the sides of my face automatically. “It’s hot in here. That’s all.”