“She’s so happy. Here, want to see baby Abby?” I show him the only picture I have so far.
“Wow, she’s cute, but why is Braden holding her?” he asks, annoyance lacing his voice.
“He’s visiting with Jackson and Mia. I’m positive he suggested it on purpose to annoy me.”
“Or he did it because he’s hoping for a repeat when you visit.”
Matt called me out about disappearing with Braden during the reception when we were on the flight home. I figured since I couldn’t talk to Cici about my indiscretion, Matt was the next best thing. It was a relief to have it off my chest, but it didn’t do much to sort my feelings on the matter—not that I had any, other than wondering what the hell I was thinking.
Braden didn’t make a great impression on Matt due to scowling at him most of the night, so Matt wasn’t excited to hear that I’d given in to him. He wasn’t rude about it, but he didn’t high-five me, that’s for sure. Thank God he didn’t know it was my first time, or his reaction would have been much worse.
“He does have a one-track mind,” I concede.
“I’d say it’s working since he lured you in with it. And I bet you won’t be able to withstand his charm any better next time.”
“You don’t know that. I’ve already decided I’m not giving in again.”
“So you’d turn him down if he showed up tomorrow?” Matt asks knowingly, with raised brows.
I drop my head in my hands and groan.
“Just be careful. There’s nothing wrong with having fun, but he doesn’t seem like a relationship guy.”
“I’m aware, trust me. But something about him drives me crazy—in a good and bad way.”
“Yeah, it’s called a dick. He has one, and he is one. It’s guys like that you should be cautious with. I just don’t want you to get hurt.”
“I won’t. I’m not stupid. I know exactly what type he is. My older brother has schooled me on dirtbags, and Braden undoubtedly falls into that category.” I might be trying to convince myself simultaneously.
“Don’t forget that when he says all the right things next time,” Matt scolds.
“Okay, Dad.” I give him the stink eye.
He laughs. “You’re such a brat. When are you leaving? Did you get your ticket yet?”
“Shoot. No, I’m doing it now. It won’t be for a couple of weeks, but I’ll let you know the exact dates and leave plenty of notes for any files I need help with.”
“Perfect. I’ll give Cici’s guests a little more time before I call to congratulate her.”
“Good idea, and thanks for the lecture.”
“Anytime. Not that it’ll change anything.” Matt shakes his head, smiling as he heads out the door.
Braden
I’ve decided to bite the bullet and make the call. What’s the worst that can happen? If he realizes my obsession and shuts me down, so be it. It’ll be the sign I need to let this go.
Eli picks up after the second ring. “Hey, Braden. How’s it going?”
“Good. Really good. How about you? How’s parenthood?”
“Crazy. I couldn’t imagine life without Abby now that she’s here, but man am I exhausted.”
I laugh in response. That’s exactly what I was hoping to hear to make my offer seem more plausible.
“I bet. Anything I can do to help?”
“Not unless you want to take night shifts.”
