rich dynasty like the Elliots are always a topic of interest. Such is life.
Catherine’s chin goes up, her gaze icy cool as she moves toward the chair. “Of course I’m delighted to sit with my family.”
There’s almost an audible sigh of relief. An unwinding or easing of tension from everyone at the table. The vibe is definitely one of oh thank fuck. In-house fighting doesn’t help anyone.
Winston pours Catherine a glass of champagne. “Engaged.”
It’s not a question so much as a statement. Beck retakes his chair, holding my hand once more. And the look he gives me, the love in his eyes…he still makes me giddy. I think he always will. “That’s right. Alice finally accepted yesterday. We couldn’t be happier.”
Catherine just sniffs.
“It’s a beautiful ring,” says Rachel.
I smile. “Yes, it is.”
“Makes me second most eligible bachelor in Denver.” Henry’s tongue plays behind his cheek. No one’s heard from Giada lately. Lord knows what she’s up to. But Henry knows he’s loved and wanted by all of us. That’s what matters. The boys only got back from their snowboarding trip a few days ago and a great time was apparently had by all.
“Don’t let it go to your head.” Ethan sips a whiskey. “I’m still number one.”
A grunt from Henry. “Looks like the love bug is going around Ethan. Be careful it doesn’t bite you on the ass.”
Catherine scowls. “Language, Henry.”
“Not going to happen,” says Ethan, voice deep and sure. “Emma’s supplying an heir and Beck and Alice will keep society busy with wedding plans. I’m off the hook for now.”
“We’ll see.” Beck gives his brother his most irritating grin before kissing my hand again. “All good, beloved?”
“I’m just fine, thank you.”
Catherine turns away with a sour expression. So she’s still neither looking at me nor talking to me. But never mind. So long as she plays nice. I didn’t imagine she’d welcome me with arms open after everything. However, Beck and I are happy and the family is no longer an active war zone.
“Actually, I’m better than fine,” I correct, leaning in closer to my fiancé. “I’m so happy.”
“‘We are all fools in love.’” Then he gives me the smile that is ever only for me. My favorite smile of them all.
“I’m not a fool. In fact, I think I’m quite smart to have caught you.”
He raises a brow. “And here I always thought I caught you.”
“We caught each other.” I grin, leaning in for a kiss. And he gives it to me, regardless of where we are or who is watching. Nothing matters beyond the press of his lips against mine. How neither of us closes our eyes until the last moment. The way his hand strays to the back of my neck. As public displays of affection go, it’s a good one. Sometimes love can suck. We both know this. Life together won’t be without its bumps. We’re going to be attending couples therapy and working on things for a long time to come. Building up that trust and maintaining it. Working on our communication skills and spending quality time together. But tonight, our love is perfection.
“Whatever you say, almost-wife.”
PURCHASE KYLIE SCOTT ’S OTHER BOOKS
Lies
Repeat
It Seemed Like a Good Idea at the Time
Trust
THE DIVE BAR SERIES
Dirty
Twist
Chaser
THE STAGE DIVE SERIES
Lick
Play
Lead
Deep
Strong: A Stage Dive Novella
THE FLESH SERIES
Flesh
Skin
Flesh Series Novellas
Heart’s a Mess
Colonist’s Wife
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LIES
CHAPTER ONE
“You’re going to break his heart.”
“No, I’m not,” I say. “That’s sort of the whole point. If I really thought leaving him would break his heart, then I probably wouldn’t be leaving him in the first place.”
My best friend, Jen, does not look convinced.
Boxes fill a good half of the room. What a mess. Who knew you could accumulate so much junk in only twelve months? At least we weren’t together so long that I can’t remember who owns what. One year is about the sweet spot for this issue in relationships, apparently.
“The fact of the matter is, we’re not in love. We have no business being engaged, let alone getting married.” I sigh. “Have you seen the packing tape?”
“No. He’s just such a nice guy.”
“I’m not debating that.” I climb to my feet, then head up the stairs to the second bedroom. Thom’s unofficial workout room/home office. Not a room I normally go into. But it only takes a bit of rummaging to find what I’m looking for. Whatever else might be said about them, insurance