A smile tugs at the corner of his damp lips.
“Plus, I have a really cute boyfriend, and I’d kinda like to keep him.”
My eyes widen.
His smile broadens, spreading so wide it almost bounces off his face and crashes onto mine. That’s just how contagious his happiness is.
I burst out laughing, unexpectedly, but full of warmth. For a second, it feels like the whole world lifts. It’s hard to explain. Because not long ago, I hated him, but in this moment, I feel so much love for him—love for the light he brings to everyone’s life.
And a boyfriend? How did I not know this?
I bite my lip, eyes wide with curiosity. “Elijah never mentioned you had a boyfriend.”
Those stormy eyes light up with mischief. He slaps me on the back as he opens the car door with a grin.
“That’s because I haven’t told him yet. I don’t tell him everything, you know.”
I’m taken aback by his admission, a surprised laugh slipping out as I fall in step beside him. I practically skip across the garage, heading toward the elevator. Gabriel tosses an arm around my shoulders, pulling me close.
“I would love to introduce him to both of you though. You’ll really like him.”
“We’d love that!” I declare, my excitement bubbling over. I’m fully back on board with rekindling things with Elijah—and now, with Gabriel too.
45
ELIJAH
“Elijaaaah, we’re home!”Gabriel sings.
Thank God. After what felt like forever pacing back and forth, I whip around, finally relieved to see Gabriel stepping off the elevator with that smug grin of his, and Alex following right behind. Honestly, I thought for sure Gabriel would come back alone.
Alex’s face lights up with a gorgeous smile as he pivots away from Gabriel to face me.Dios mío, I don’t know what transpired between them in the last couple of hours, but I can only assume Gabriel’s charm worked its magic. I make a beeline for him, secretly nodding to Gabriel as I pass by.
“Alex.” My voice cracks. I want to pull him in for a hug and devour that stubborn mouth of his, but I have no idea where we stand, or even if we still have a relationship at all. Instead, I approach with caution, reaching for his elbow.
“Would you like a drink?” I offer, breaking the tension.
“Jesus, Elijah. Are we at a restaurant?” Gabriel mocks, his voice light with amusement. “He had two beers in the car. Prettysure he’d settle for a kiss right about now. Unless, of course, you’d like me to kiss him?”
“Like hell you will,” I growl, pulling Alex tightly against my chest. He grins, throwing an arm around my waist and squeezing my ass in a way that makes me jump, like I’ve been stung by a bee.
Of course, Gabriel doesn’t miss it.
“Seems your ass is up for grabs these days,” he teases, throwing a wink in our direction.
And Alex—he actually laughs.
Loudly. A full, genuine laugh.
46
ELIJAH
“You look amazing, Dad!”Ana whistles from the doorway of her bedroom.
It’s date night, and I’m dressed to impress. Black designer trousers and a camel-colored long-sleeve shirt that completes my look. Three buttons are purposely left undone, knowing Alex is a fan of my stubbly chest hair. Plus, it looks fashionable… and if I’m stepping out with a famous supermodel tonight, then I need to step up my game.
“Thank you, sweetheart.” I pause just outside her bedroom and peek inside. Clothes are neatly folded and set aside on her bed, alongside a few shoeboxes, which I assume are headed back to school with her. She and Emilee will be sharing an apartment on campus this semester, and the packing has been nonstop this weekend.
