“Thanks. I think I can eat now.”
“That was a load,” Shane says. “I’m thinking we should do something fun today.”
“I agree,” someone adds from the other end of the table.
“We have the festival today,” Shane reminds us, “but afterward, we’ll go swimming.”
It’s still warm and perfect for a night swim.
“Yeah.” Jimmy laughs.
“I can dig girls in bikinis.” Linc smirks before getting slapped upside the head by Skye.
“I meant you.” He cups her cheek, placing a chaste kiss on her lips.
“Bring Stella and Ralston,” Shane says and Skye nods.
“Leave your dishes in the sink—you know the drill,” I say, and chuckles resound throughout the kitchen.
“Naturally.” Ever smiles at me.
I set my dish in the sink and take a glance out the window to see London glaring at us and a man with familiar eyes.
I’m going insane. I see this guy around, and every time, it makes me think Ben is here.
He’s not here. He can’t be. It has to be my mind playing tricks on me.
Mckenna and Ariel bring me some dishes, breaking me from my internal reflections. “Here ya go.”
Taking a deep, calming breath, I push thoughts of Ben to the farthest recesses of my brain.
“Thanks,” I say, rinsing them off and putting them in the dishwasher. Some will have to soak until we get back.
“So, the girls were thinking about a day of shopping soon,” Mckenna says.
“Um . . .”
“I told them you might not be ready unless you have one of the guys with us,” Ariel adds. “And we’re okay with that. Memphis usually tags along because of Ever.”
“Okay,” I reluctantly agree. “Yeah, I probably need to get a few things, anyway.”
“See you down at the festival,” they both say as they grab their guys and head out.
Ever hugs me. “Thank you.”
“Huh?” I ask, confused.
“I actually think you’re good for my dad,” she says.
“Ivy was your friend,” I point out.
“I know, but he seems much happier with you.”
“You can tell this early?” I ask, excited that she approves and thinking it strange she’s okay with everything.
“I know I’m not wrong.” She winks as Memphis helps her out the door.
Soon, it’s just five of us.