“Desiree—”
“I don’t want to talk about it.”
“Alright,” Gina says softly.
I glance toward the living room, where Margot is now showing Enrick something on her phone while Bella leans against her leg. So comfortable. So familiar.
Turning back to the counter, I wipe down the same section of granite I’ve already cleaned twice. Red and green sprinkles are scattered across the dark surface like confetti.
“I’ll grab more paper towels from the storage,” Gina announces suddenly and squeezes my arm as she passes. “Talk to him.”
I turn back to the counter, confused by her sudden exit. The roll of paper towels is still nearly full. What was that about?
Suddenly, Enrick’s arms wrap around my waist, pulling me back against his chest. “Hey. What’s wrong?”
I want to lean into him, to let myself have this, but Margot’s laughter carries from the living room and my spine stiffens. “Nothing’s wrong.”
“Desiree.” His breath is warm against my ear. “Talk to me.”
“How long have you and Margot been friends?”
“Since high school. Why?”
“Just curious.” I focus on folding the dishtowel into perfect squares. “She seems very... comfortable here. With you. With Bella.”
His arms tighten. “She’s been a part of my life for a long time. Of course, she knows Bella.”
“Have you two ever...” I trail off, hating how insecure I sound.
“Ever what?”
“Dated. Hooked up. Kissed.” The words tumble out in a rush.
Enrick’s response is immediate. “No. Never. She’s like a sister to me.”
“Really? Because the way she looks at you doesn’t seem particularly sisterly.”
“Margot is my friend. Nothing more.” He pauses, and when he speaks again, his voice is quieter. “You’re the only woman I’ve ever been with, Desiree.”
He’d said it in the wine cellar, but hearing it again while I’m spiraling with jealousy over another woman makes me feel special. I was the first woman he’d trusted with that part of himself. The only woman.
“What is this about?”
“I’m just asking.” I hate how defensive I sound. “She has the keys to your house. She helped decorate Bella’s room. She calls you Rick.”
He turns me in his arms, forcing me to meet his eyes. “I have never been attracted to her, never wanted to kiss her, never thought about her the way I think about you.”
“She’s gorgeous.”
His hands slide up to cup my face. “You’re jealous.”
“I’m not—” But I can’t finish the lie.
“You are.” A smile plays on his lips. “And I like it. Do you know what that means to me? That you care enough to be jealous?”
“Shut up.” But I’m smiling too now, my mouth inches from his.
“You’re the only woman I want. The only woman I’ve wanted since the night we met.”
