We’re still laughing when we burst back into the kitchen.
Kat draws up short.
“Kat, Pen,” Jaxson’s smooth voice comes from across the room, where he’s nursing a mug of coffee.
Kat ignores him, turning to me. “I’m going to grab a shower. I’ll see you later.”
I move to the fridge but watch Jaxson’s eyes as they follow Kat. I grab a bottle of chilled water from the shelf and pull off the top before taking a deep swallow.
I move toward Jax, who’s still staring at the empty doorway.
“Hey, stranger,” I say, placing a kiss on his cheek. “I’d give you a hug, but?—”
He holds up his hands, his attention now on me.
“That’s okay. It’s the thought that counts,” he says, smiling.
“Exactly.”
He inclines his head. “I hear you and Elijah...”
“Bloody hell, news travels fast, and it’s supposed to be on the down low.”
He chuckles. “Like you, I’m family. Fran couldn’t help herself. Plus, I couldn’t be happier. It’s about time you two sorted out your shit.”
“Another reason I didn’t want everyone knowing.”
“What? Worried you two won’t work out.”
It’s my turn to incline my head.
“Jax—”
“Hey, I was there, remember?”
“I know, and I’m not sure how I would have survived it without you in my life.”
“I kept your confidence. Even though Elijah was my best friend.” He gives my arm a squeeze. “I really am happy for you both. You deserve the time to see where this relationship can go.”
I turn to look at the door where my friend has gone.
“She needs you.”
His lips purse, his eyes hardening.
“Not going to happen,” he says in a very unlike Jax way.
“Look, I don’t know what happened between you two. She’s as tight-lipped as you are, but she needs you now. Or at least your expertise.”
He shakes his head.
“I’ve tried Pen. Really, I have, but Kat hates me. It’s safer for everyone involved to let us be.”
I nod, knowing I can’t push any more.
Elijah takes that moment to enter the kitchen. He walks up behind me and circles my waist.
“I’m sweaty,” I say, grimacing.
