Nick nods, then rubs his chin. “Any friends from college out here?”
“One lives about three hours away. I’ve been talking to her again.” I sigh. “I’ve thought about actually meeting Bella, but I’m sure she’s swamped, and it might be awkward.”
“Bella’s friendly. She might appreciate some help when it comes to the wedding, and a girl’s perspective would probably be appreciated.”
“You think so?”
“I’ll call her today.” He kisses the top of my head. “Where’s this group date happening?”
I blink a few times, then laugh. “I was so worried making sure we got time together that I didn’t think about it. We can do dinner or ….”
“Dinner sounds good. I know a place. Maybe then we could all go up to the pool, drink, and have a good time.”
“I like it. Simple.” I grin up at him.
“Simple can be beautiful.” His lips mold to mine, soft and tender. “I learned that from modeling.”
“The simple thing or the kissing. Depending on the answer, I have questions.”
He chuckles and kisses me again and again. Until a familiar hunger teases my stomach. I groan and pull him closer, slipping my fingers into his shirt. “How are you so gentle and amazing all the time?”
“I don’t know. I don’t think I am.”
“And humble.” I hum against his lips. “What a combination.”
He chuckles and fists my hair in his hand as we kiss again and again. Trading soft whispers and softer kisses until I shake my head. “I don’t understand you guys.”
“All of us or just me?”
“You all could have anyone in the world. You could have multiple women.”
“Money’s real attractive.” He rolls his eyes.
“No, for you.”
“Looks and charm get us everywhere.” He sits back.
“You know what I mean.”
“No.” He shakes his head. “We tried that, kind of, some of us. I dated a few women while I was modeling. Roman dated some women while the business was starting. Miles tried. Gunner had more than his share of fun.”
“But?”
“But we found out fast that when money is involved, and issues exist, that some people aren’t interested in staying. It had its effects. Holden dated one girl … when she saw the prosthetic after a month, she ghosted him.”
“What?!” I jump up. “You’re kidding me!”
“No.”
I look up and see Holden, drinking coffee, looking paler than normal. He shrugs. “It happens.”
“I’d punch her right in the face if I could.” I say seriously. “What a bitch!”
Nick snares my waist and pulls me down. “Easy tiger.”
“No. I’m furious!” I struggle so I can look at Holden. “That woman is a plight to society. You know you’re more than the whole package.”
Holden cracks a smile and raises his mug to me. “Thank you, Sophie.”