Temptation on Ocean Drive - Jennifer Probst Page 0,81
us a secret for a while until we get adjusted to the idea of being in a relationship.”
He blinked. “Why? She married?”
“No!”
“A politician? Breaking up with a current boyfriend?”
“No.”
“Then why the hell are you keeping it a secret?”
“I told you—she wants time to get used to it. If I say who it is, you can’t tell Avery.”
Carter groaned. “You kidding? I can’t keep secrets from her—you know this.”
“Just for a few days. We’re probably going to make an announcement soon.”
“Then we must know her. Avery doesn’t gossip, so if you don’t want her to know, it’s because . . .” He stared at him. “Holy shit. It’s Bella.”
“Shhh! Zoe’s here,” he hissed.
“Sorry, you just took me by surprise.” Carter leaned in and punched his shoulder, a big-ass grin on his face. “Damn, you finally took our advice and told her how you feel? I’m so happy for you. I’ve always thought you two would be perfect together.”
Gabe relaxed, warmth infusing him at his friend’s enthusiasm. “Thanks. We’ve grown closer while planning the wedding, and that night, well, let’s just say we had a heart-to-heart talk. I heard you had my back, letting her know all those rumors about me weren’t real. Appreciate it.”
“Was only telling the truth. Gossip like that would trouble Bella. She’s protective of her daughter.”
“Exactly. I think we finally found common ground. I’m ecstatic, don’t get me wrong, but I’m still worried this whole thing will end up like a big illusion.”
Carter frowned. “What do you mean?”
He ate another wing and contemplated how to explain. “I guess I figured we’d be checking in with each other more, about our plans, spending time together, et cetera. I thought she’d be happy to tell her sisters about us. You don’t think she’s having doubts, do you?”
“No reason to. Bella’s not the type to jump in without thought. You’ve been patient and honest with her, and you deserve to be happy. Both of you. Try not to worry about how it unfolds, and just enjoy.”
“You’re right. Thanks. I needed a kick in the ass.”
Two adorable faces peeked into the kitchen. “Are we ready for tea yet?” Zoe asked, smiling prettily.
Gabe shook his head and shot a look at Carter. “Sure. And afterward, Uncle Carter said he wants to play dress-up, and I’ll be the judge to see who looks the prettiest.”
“Yay!” they yelled.
Carter shot him the middle finger, and they went to play tea party.
“How about that guy over there?” Daisy pointed out. “He looks nice.”
Bella laughed, taking another sip of her wine. “What does nice look like? They said Ted Bundy looked nice.”
“Why do you have to be difficult? I mean, he’s nicely dressed, not too young or old, and looks single. Plus, we don’t know him, so maybe he’s new in town. Let’s send him a drink.”
Her jaw dropped. “No! Come on, Daisy, that’s desperate. And I thought we were looking for you, not me. You’re the one who wants to get wild, remember?”
Her friend sighed and sucked on her straw. “Sorry, I was just trying to shake things up. There’s no one good out. They’re all young enough to be my son, and that’s just icky. Should we try somewhere else?”
“We tried the Boiler Room and Carney’s. At least Harry’s makes your favorite cocktail, and they have good appetizers.”
Daisy looked glum. “Sorry to be a bummer. I’m just frustrated. The dating apps are awful, and there’s not a lot to do in the winter. I’ll be better once the tourists and the sun come back. More possibilities. It’s just that I feel trapped lately.”
Bella squeezed her friend’s hand in sympathy. “I get it, babe. It’s hard when you’re a single parent and doing it all on your own. But I promise it will get better, and tonight, you can get drunk and forget your problems.”
Daisy grinned. “You’re right. Cheers.” She clinked her glass and leaned back in her seat. “So tell me about you. How are things with Gabe?”
Bella’s fingers jerked around the glass, and wine sloshed over the rim. She dabbed at it with a napkin, wondering why she felt so awkward telling her best friend the truth. Maybe she just wasn’t used to being involved with a man, so it was still new. “Well, funny you should ask. We’re kind of . . . well, we’re—”
“Oh my God, you bitch! You’re sleeping with him!” Daisy laughed with delight. “About time you got some. How was he? As good as everyone talks about? Tell me every