The Boy Next Door - Jennifer Sucevic Page 0,79

you could join us. The more, the merrier.”

“Thanks for having me.”

Colton glances around the foyer. “Where’s Dad? Is he still at work?”

“Nope, he ran out to pick up dinner.” She rolls her eyes. “I told him that I was more than happy to throw something together for us, but he insisted on grabbing carryout from Marco’s.”

“I love that restaurant,” I say. It’s one we often frequented as a family when I was a kid. Their chicken parm is to die for. Although, a new bar has been set with Colton’s dish. I glance at him, still blown away that he went through all the trouble of preparing dinner for me.

“It’s one of my favorites, too.” She reaches out and takes hold of Colton’s hand. “I hope you realize that you didn’t have to make such a long trip just for dinner.”

“It wasn’t a problem. I wanted to be here to help celebrate.” His gaze flickers to mine. “Sometimes it’s nice to get away from campus, even if it’s just for a couple of hours.”

“Well, I’m glad you’re here.” Her gaze touches upon me. “Both of you.” She releases his hand before waving us to the back of the house. “Why don’t we move this to the kitchen while we wait for your father to return?”

With that decision made, we travel through the immense foyer before entering an arched gallery. Artwork hangs on the walls. Small brass lights illuminate the paintings. This place resembles a museum rather than someone’s personal home. As tempted as I am to stop and admire some of the art, I keep it moving. My gaze flickers to a sprawling living room that lies beyond the gallery. A bank of floor-to-ceiling windows line the far wall, showcasing an expansive backyard. The furniture is a mix of antique collectibles and modern pieces. There are thick colorful rugs that add texture and warmth to the space.

Twenty seconds later, we arrive at the kitchen. Like the other rooms I’ve glimpsed, it’s spacious. There are long stretches of white marble, stainless steel appliances, and gorgeous crystal lighting. Bowls of fruit and small potted topiaries are strategically placed on the countertops. It looks like something you would find in a glossy magazine spread.

“What can I get for you to drink?” Jenna asks, interrupting the whirl of my thoughts.

“Water is fine. Thank you.”

“Are you sure?” She pauses at the massive island in the middle of the room. “You’re more than welcome to have a glass of wine. We have a well-stocked cellar downstairs.”

I shake my head. Something tells me that it would be prudent to keep my wits about me this evening. Already, I feel myself falling hard, and it’s a scary prospect. All I want to do is pump the brakes. Colton has promised that we would take this relationship slowly. But I’m no longer sure that’s possible, everything seems to be happening at lightning speed.

“I’ll have a water, as well,” Colton says.

Jenna moves to the mini-fridge built into the side of the island and pulls out two bottles of water. I grab the one that is set in front of me before twisting off the cap and taking a sip. Again, I’m afforded another opportunity to observe Colton’s interaction with his stepmother. There’s an easy banter between them. It’s obvious they have a strong connection as she teases him with sparkling eyes. I’ve known Colton for more than a decade, and this is probably the first time I’ve seen him this relaxed. It only makes me realize that even though we spent six months together, he never fully lowered his guard. A pang of sadness blooms inside me at that knowledge.

I’m yanked from those thoughts by the sound of the backdoor opening from down the hall before an older man walks into the kitchen carrying two white bags with the Marco’s logo stamped across them. He sets the containers on the counter and immediately leans over to kiss Jenna. “Happy birthday, sweetheart.”

With a smile, he greets Colton before pulling him in for a hug. It’s one of those manly types where they clap each other on the back before quickly stepping away. His friendly gaze falls to me. Before I can stretch out my hand for him to shake, he swallows me up in a giant bear hug. Warren Montgomery is a big, burly man. He and his son are similar in height, but Warren is broader in the chest and shoulders. Kind of like a bull. His dark hair and

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