I swallow hard, the truth of her words settling in my throat. It’s not what anyonewantsto hear—that I’m stuck because of me. Because I haven’t been brave enough to let go or move on.
It freaking sucks.
I dab at the corner of my eye, catching the tear about to fall.
But it’s also empowering. The things she said. Making it about me. What I want. What I can learn. Owning my life. I’ve never looked at it that way. It makes sense. Even if I still don’t know what I want to do about Jensen.
What I do know? I don’t want to feel this way anymore. I don’t want to be the victim in my story. I was the heroine when I left. But somewhere along the way, I let fear take the reins again. I lost the power I gave myself all those months ago.
“God, that was a lot. Come here.” Cooper pulls me into a hug, holding me tight. “I hope I didn’t say anything that upset you. I meant every word with love. I just want to see you happy. And today? You seem happy.”
I wrap my arms around her, resting my chin on her shoulder. “Thank you,” I manage, my voice tight. “I really needed to hear that.”
She gives me a pat before pulling back, her eyes locking with mine. “Okay, can we go back to the kiss now?”
“Coop!” Ryan’s voice carries over the trickle of the water feature as he rounds the corner. “Oh, hey. There you are.” He glances between us, catching the weight of whatever he’s walked into. “Uh, Sandy’s back with the entrees.” He flashes a smile. “We need the decision makers.”
“Give us two minutes. We’re coming.”
Ryan nods, turns, and disappears, and Cooper gives me one last squeeze. “You’ve got this, okay? Stop doubting yourself and just do what makes you happy.”
“Thanks, Coop.”
We head back to the table and I slide into my seat, then tap my phone screen, and a new message from Jensen pops up.
I swipe into it.
Jensen
Jesus. Don’t fucking tease me like that, babe. You know all you have to do is say the word—I’ll have you dripping down your thighs before dessert.
Heat flashes through me, and I grip my phone, biting back the biggest grin.
Oh. My. God.
Vivian pullsthe G-Wagon into her designated parking space and we step out, making our way to their townhome.
The rest of the tasting went smoothly—full of laughter and easy conversation.
Viv and I talked on the drive back. I told her about kissing Jensen. She just smiled and said, “If it felt right in the moment, that’s great. I’m happy for you.” No pressure. No judgment. Just support. Her and Cooper have both been through so much, and they look at life through completely different lenses. They’re both wise in their own ways, and I feel lucky to have them as friends.
Leo’s voice carries down the hallway as we head upstairs, along with another voice I’d recognize from a mile away.
Scarlett.
I step into the living room with a grin, locking eyes with her. She’s sitting adjacent to Leo, while Isla sits cross-legged on the floor with a book.
Scarlett practically launches off the couch and barrels into me. We collide in a hug, laughing as we sway side to side like we’re fifteen again.
“Oh my God!” I squeal. “This is the best surprise!”
She laughs in my ear. “I’ve missed you so much!” Then she turns to Vivian. “Hi, I’m Scarlett.” She pulls her into a warm hug too. “Your husband is a gem, by the way,” she adds, gesturing toward Leo, who’s now striding over.
“We were just getting acquainted,” Leo says, leaning in to kiss Vivian, “and talking about having everyone over tonight for poker and drinks. It’s short notice, and I know Michael’s working, but if Stella can get a sitter, I think everyone else is in.”
Oh, shit… Jensen.
My gaze shifts to Leo. “Jensen’s still here,” I say, glancing at my watch. “I’m actually supposed to get him in an hour. We were going to visit my dad, and then grab dinner.”
