But now that I’m alone again, the distraction is gone. I’ve started sulking in the evenings around the time I used to text or read with Braden for “Book Club.”It sucks to realize how much I looked forward to it now that it’s gone. And boy, is it hitting me hard.
I’ve tried to pass the time by calling Cici, but she should only have to endure so much of my misery, so I’ve been trying not to overdo the wholewoe is mething. Her telling me about the guy’s night out midweek and what bad shape Braden is in didn’t help. Cici thought it would make me feel better to know how miserable he was, but it made it worse to know he’s as torn up as I am.
Unfortunately, it’s another crying spree that finally lulls me to sleep.
By Saturday night, I’m still a mess after another letter arrived today, tossed in with the first one. Depending on how long he keeps this up, I may have to do something about them, but for now, I do my best to doll myself up and paste a big smile on before walking into the restaurant to meet Grayson and Matt.
“Hey, you. Are you feeling rested yet?” I ask Grayson as I reach the table and lean in for a hug. Matt isn’t here yet.
“Yep. Sorry I didn’t come by yesterday, but I’m glad I foundsomething.” Grayson spent the day car shopping and went to bed right after dinner, still jetlagged.
“No worries. What did you end up with?”
“The biggest truck I could find. I’m used to driving military vehicles, so a car wouldn’t cut it.”
“Well, I’m happy you got one then. I’m excited for you to meet Matt. I wish Cici was still here so you could meet her too, but you’re a few months late.”
“Is this Matt guy your boyfriend, or what?” He raises one eyebrow, making me laugh.
“He’s just a friend, I swear. Why would I hide it if heweremy boyfriend? It’s not like I require your approval or anything.”
He gives me a stern look. “Uh, think again. I’m still your older and wiser brother.”
I roll my eyes. “In case you forgot, I’m an adult who dated plenty while you were gone.” No need to tell him how I screwed that up.
“If any of them were serious, I’d have known and checked them out.”
“Oh geez, you can’t protect me forever.”
“Says who?”
“Me.”
It’s his turn to roll his eyes, but before he makes a retort, Matt joins us.
“Hey,” Matt says, approaching the table.
“Yay, you’re here.” I smile and rise to hug him.
Grayson also stands, and I introduce them while they shake hands. Matt welcomes him home as we take our seats. The waiter comes for our drink orders and then leaves us to visit.
“So is it true you and my sister are just friends?”
“Grayson!” I chastise.
Matt laughs and answers, “Yes. I did try to date Cici once, but Poppy and I were fast friends.”
Grayson nods in acceptance.
“So you’ll take his word for it but not mine,” I admonish Grayson.
“Just making sure I’m not missing anything.”
I roll my eyes for the second time tonight. “You’re annoying.”
He laughs. “And you’re glad to have me back.” He winks at me, then turns to Matt. “Poppy told me you two work together. How long have you been in real estate?”
“A little over a year now. The timing was right, and the market was in my favor, so it worked out. I’m loving it. How about you? What are your plans now that you’re home?” Matt’s a natural at conversing with people. It’s one of the reasons he’s so successful.
