“We can push it to another weekend,” Emma said quickly.
My shoulders slumped. I realized that even if we found an excuse for the next five weekends, they’d just invite us for another time.
Griffin caught my gaze, and I suspected that he’d reached the exact same conclusion. I pushed a strand of hair behind my ear, buying myself time.
“Let me check my calendar,” I said. “And maybe you should do the same.”
I wanted to send him a text so we were on the same page. I took out my phone and went directly to type a message.
Phoebe: I don’t think we can get out of it.
He replied right away.
Griffin: I know.
“All right, let’s see my calendar,” he said slowly, pretending to be reviewing his commitments.
We were both holding our phones in our laps so no one could see if we were typing or not.
Phoebe: Then let’s go.
Griffin: Are you sure?
Phoebe: Yes.
“No, the party’s this week,” I said, looking up.
“Excellent!” Emma exclaimed. “Then that’s settled. It’s going to be wonderful.”
“Just the four of us?” Griffin asked.
“Yes,” Jude replied. “Maybe we’ll talk some more about the deal during that time.”
“Nonsense,” Emma said, playfully pushing him away. “They’re our guests.”
“I’ll have my assistant arrange everything, and I’ll drop you an email with the details,” Jude added.
“I look forward to it,” Griffin said.
“All right. You youngsters probably want to continue your evening, but it’s getting late for these two old birds, so we’re going to head out. I already took care of the bill.”
“Jude,” Griffin protested.
“No, I won’t hear of it. I’m the one who suggested this restaurant.”
“I’ll pick up the tab next time.” Griffin stood, then pulled back my chair, taking my hand as I rose to my feet. He was constantly touching me, and I liked it more than I wanted to admit. Secretly, I was happy that we’d get to do this all over again. Then it dawned on me that we’d have to spend the night there too. In the same room, presumably.
Shit, this was going to be more involved than I’d thought.
I tensed, and Griffin splayed his palm on the bare part of my back. I instantly relaxed into his touch. We walked side by side, right behind Jude and Emma. Once we stepped out of the restaurant, I noticed that Griffin’s car was already waiting for us, and Jude’s was here as well.
“It was great meeting you, Phoebe,” Emma said and kissed my cheek, giving me a half hug that I returned. Guilt slammed into me once more.
Jude shook my hand. “I can’t wait to see the two of you again.”
“Likewise,” Griffin replied.
After they went to their car, we headed to the Range Rover.
