Love on Beach Avenue (The Sunshine Sisters #1) - Jennifer Probst Page 0,98
touch hers. The innocent contact caused her tummy to swirl like a flight of butterflies. She ate and drank, but every inch of her body was aware of his. She ached to touch the rough stubble on his angular jaw, smooth the hair from his forehead, and trace the lush curve of his lips. He wore his glasses today, and the casual jeans and navy-blue T-shirt showed off his lean muscles.
“Carter, are you heading back to DC this week?” Ally asked.
His voice was smooth and heated, like the whiskey he’d drunk last night. “Actually, I extended my rental to Labor Day. It’s been nice taking some time off, so I’m going to enjoy the beach until my next project kicks off.”
Avery stiffened, but he grabbed her hand under the table and squeezed.
Ally looked delighted. “Good for you! I’m so glad you’re giving yourself more downtime. Maybe you can convince Avery to take some time off, too—she’s a proud workaholic like you.”
Avery forced a smile. “Unfortunately, wedding season in Cape May doesn’t allow for much free time.”
“I know, babe. And I hate that I added to your burden with my last-minute wedding. I just want you to have some fun like we did in Atlantic City,” Ally said.
“Your wedding was not a burden,” she said firmly, pointing her fork in the air. “But I’ll make sure to take care of your brother for the next two weeks.” She refused to feel guilt from her declaration, but the grateful way her friend looked at her made her want to tell the truth.
“Thanks,” Ally said. “Jason and I are heading out tomorrow for Turks and Caicos before fall semester starts. I don’t want to have to worry about my brother while I’m lazing on the beach with my new husband.”
Carter shook his head. “I’m perfectly capable of taking care of myself, Ally-Cat.”
“I know, but you’re a hermit and forget that Lucy isn’t a real human. Avery will make sure you get out, even if it’s just for a meal.”
“A few hours as a married woman and you’re already getting bossy,” he teased.
She stuck out her tongue and everyone laughed.
“Avery, are you coming to the beach with us today?” Ally asked.
“I wish I could, but I need to cover a small evening reception.” She pulled a sad face. “I think I’ve used up all my favors with my sisters.”
“But I’m leaving at five a.m. tomorrow, and I won’t be able to see you again before I go.”
Guilt hit her. She opened her mouth to try and explain, but Carter cut in. “Ally-Cat, you won’t be on your honeymoon forever. And Avery already mentioned when the wedding season calms down, she’ll come visit you in Texas. Right?”
Avery nodded. “I’d love that.”
Her friend sniffed. “Okay, only if you promise. I was bummed we couldn’t spend the whole summer together like we planned. I just miss you so damn much!”
“Me, too.”
Avery went down the length of the table, hugging and kissing everyone and accepting their thanks with gratitude. “Call me when you get back,” she said, holding Ally tight. “And if you remember, text me some pics. I love you.”
“Love you, too.”
Avery walked out and headed back to Sunshine Bridal. Better to let Carter have the day and night again with his sister. Better to have a break from being with him. With only two precious weeks left for them to figure out what they both wanted, she suddenly wanted to hide in the only thing that made sense and soothed her shaky confidence.
Work.
Chapter Nineteen
Avery walked into her sisters’ house and stopped short at the delicious scent of butter and garlic. “What’s going on?” she demanded, dropping her purse on the sectional and heading into the kitchen.
Taylor never cooked—that was Bella’s domain. But here she was, her pink hair curling from the heat of the stove, and a cranky look on her face as she glared. “You didn’t knock,” she accused. “I thought we discussed this.”
“T, you invited me to dinner. Figured that meant you weren’t rolling around naked on the couch with some random dude.” She looked at the dining table, which had the additional section inserted, and seven table settings laid out. “Why are you cooking? Where’s the pizza?”
“I get no support in this family,” she grumbled.
Avery grabbed the bottle of chardonnay and poured herself a full glass. Maybe some alcohol would help. She’d been deliberately avoiding Carter, and her nerves were shot. “Who’d you invite over?”