Beckett has to know I told Theo all about their nuptials because our conversation was nowhere near that topic. In hindsight, we weren't having a conversation period.
"He proposed like a week ago. It was such a surprise. But yes, this is my fiancé, Beckett."
"Nice to meet you." Theo extends his hand, and Beckett nervously reciprocates the shake. I see him wince as Theo crushes his fingers.
"You look so familiar," Scarlet says to me.
"I didn't go to your high school," I assure her, anxious to change the subject.
"No, I didn't think so. Maybe—oh, Roasted! Don't you work there?"
What the hell, does she have a photographic memory?
"I do, part-time," I admit through clenched teeth.
"Are you still living here?" Theo asks Scarlet.
"No, I moved to Arizona. Beckett and I met at a conference and have been together almost a year."
"Wow, engaged before a year. You must have known she was the one, huh?" I turn to Beckett.
His stare says so much: I'm sorry. Forgive me. Please don't do this.
"When you know, you know," Beckett says with a tight smile.
"Let's see that ring," Theo asks.
The fake dating must have given Theo telepathic capabilities because I've been dying to get a closer look.
She presents her left hand and Theo and I examine it.
"It's beautiful," I tell her truthfully.
"How long have you been together?" Scarlet asks us.
"A couple of weeks." Theo offers this tidbit, despite the fact we said we'd embellish the timeline. "Just like Bennett said, when you know, you know."
"Beckett," he corrects, his mouth a horizontal line of annoyance. I’m secretly delighted with Theo’s performance and make a note to suggest that he consider acting.
"I made my move the second she was single," Theo tells us. "Bided my time for this rare beauty to be on the market again. And finally, like it was fate, it happened. Hard to believe someone would throw away such a treasure. Certainly deserves an ass beating, am I right?"
I'm the only one who laughs as I snuggle into his arms.
"When is the wedding?" Theo is asking all the right questions, and maybe Iwillkiss him tonight. I might even allow tongue on our first date.
"We haven't figured that out yet," Scarlet admits.
"Well, it was nice to meet you both. I think we have some catching up to do with some folks, but maybe we’ll see you later." Beckett ushers Scarlet away before she can even offer a goodbye.
Theo and I stand in shock.
"What…the…hell…" I say.
"Why is she even marrying that dumbass?"
"I have no clue. What was she like in high school?"
"A track and field star. Super smart. Got a perfect score on her SATs."
