I smile and lean more into Roman’s side. “Well, I was at a charity gala and wasn’t watching where I was going and spilled red wine on Roman’s shirt.”
ROMAN
Noelle settles into my side as she talks about our first meeting. Part of me wanted it to be true. I wish we met that way versus…well.
“I am talking about his whole white shirt was soaked. I reached for a napkin on a table and patted his shirt.”
I chuckle, remembering how she just threw a vase at my head in her home. Without realizing what I am doing, I comment.
“Oh, she has a thing with getting me soaked. I went to pick her up, and she took a vase and threw it at me.”
Noelle pulls away and looks at me. “I can’t believe you just told them that.”
“You threw a vase at my son?” My father asks.
Noelle’s jaw drops. “Sir, let me explain. I thought he was an intruder.”
“You left your door open.”
“You could have knocked,” she countered.
I look at her lips again, thinking about the kiss we just shared.
“I think you just wanted to see me naked before we left.”
Her eyes widen. “Roman, behave. Oh my God, I am so sorry.”
Seeing her flustered makes me chuckle.
“I thought both occasions were funny.”
Tessa frowns. “You were never one for humor. You found it to be frivolous.”
I frown. “People change, Tess.”
Ollie knocks the table. “She has given you a sense of humor. She is a keeper.”
Noelle pushes her hair behind her ear.
Tessa leans forward. “So how long did you two know each other before you got engaged?”
Noelle takes her fork and spear into the pear. “Not too long. But when you know, you know. Right, Roman?”
“Agreed.”
Tessa’s jaw rocks, and her hands flex on the cutlery. She hates the answer. Perfect.
The sound of clinking flatware continues, and casual conversation about sports arises between Ollie and me.
“Tell me, Noelle, what’s your intention with our Roman?” my father asks as he cuts his arugula. Everyone at the tables freezes.
I frown, not liking the question. It feels like a subtle attack.
Noelle looks up at me with the sincerest expressions. “To make him feel like he is not alone. To be his peace.”
I don’t know what it is, but something shifts in me. It’s like for some seconds, Noelle actually understands.
Tillie grabs Noelle by the shoulder. “You are just the kind of woman my cousin needs.”
