“So…” I clear my throat. “I’ve been meaning to talk to you guys about something.”
“Ooh, sounds juicy.” Ava focuses on me. “What is it?”
“Remember that arranged marriage thingy that I was destined to do ever since they found out I have a vagina?”
“Those patriarchal pricks.” Cecily’s eyes shine with defiance.
“What she said.” Ava bumps her friend’s shoulder. “And? Did they pick up a husband for you at seventeen? Want us to riot in front of the US embassy? Maybe the Russian embassy, too?”
“No on all counts. Mom said she wouldn’t allow it.”
Cecily’s expression eases. “I knew I liked your mum.”
“What she said again. So is your mum going to cut a bitch in your name or should we do it?”
“I don’t think any of that is needed. Mom said Papa won’t let anyone force me into marriage if I have someone I love.”
“Yes! Bitch, why didn’t you say that before and why aren’t we celebrating?”
“Hello? Because I have no one I love?”
“Well, you can find someone.” Ava sighs. “Falling in love is actually easier than it sounds. Overrated, too, just saying. Not that I’m talking from experience or anything.”
“Security, this one right here is a pathological liar,” Cecily says.
“Am not!”
“Are, too!”
“You’re delusional,” Ava says, then focuses on me. “Back to the subject at hand. I’m telling you, Anni, you’re like hot and smart, and I’d totally become gay for you if I had a choice. Point is, anyone can fall in love with you. All you have to do is love them back.”
I lean on the pillar beside Cecily to ease the ache from my ankles and release a long sigh. “That’s easier said than done. I was thinking about convincing someone to fake date me until my parents think I’m in a stable relationship. But then again, they’d see straight through my lies. Also, I would be putting the poor boy at the top of Papa and Jer’s shit list. Also known as the hit list.”
“You don’t have to think that hard about it,” Cecily says. “I’m sure if you explain it to any of your guy friends, they’ll be willing to help. Jeremy won’t kill them or anything.”
“You obviously don’t know how overprotective my brother can get.”
“If the one you pick is a brilliant chap and has great conversational skills, he’ll be able to win over your brother.”
“And where do I find this Prince Charming, Ava?”
“Brandon! He’s quite the looker, charismatic, and most importantly, he likes you. I think only as a friend, but that’s enough to convince Jeremy and fly under his radar.”
“I don’t know. I don’t want to get him hurt.”
“Talk to him and see.” Cecily smiles. “Remi would be willing to help, too. He’s an infuriating prick, but he has a great sense of loyalty. And he can become an eloquent conversationalist when the situation requires it.”
I did think about that option when I first came up with this plan, but I’m hesitant about getting someone hurt for my benefit.
“Oh, Creigh!” Ava stares ahead behind us. “What are you doing here alone? Where’s your designated shadow, Remi?”
The hairs on the back of my neck stand on end and wildfire explodes on my skin.
I don’t dare look behind the pillar or even take a breath.
But just because I’m hiding doesn’t mean the world pauses.
Creighton strides to our small circle, one hand in his pocket and the other grasping a bottle of water.