Mason leaned forward and kissed Warren’s cheek. The familiar scent of his aftershave and skin returned him to their years together. Mason was no longer that na?ve, cocky person who believed he could win the world with a smile. But in no way were they wasted years—never that, because he believed everything happened in life for a purpose. He might’ve made better choices, but he’d had wonderful experiences and left unscathed, with a better understanding of himself and a lifelong friendship with Warren.
“Thank you. And I’ve missed you as well, as a good friend. It’s difficult enough to find people to trust, as I’m learning the hard way.” Warren listened to his retelling of what happened with Pryce, leading up to the events of the day. Warren remained quiet, but his eyes flashed dangerously, and Mason saw that other side of Warren. A man who was used to getting what he wanted and damn those who stood in his way.
“Watch your back around that man. People don’t change overnight. I’d be wary.”
“I know. But I think we’ll be fine. He knows where I stand.”
“And Jude? Where do you stand with him? That’s my concern. You deserve someone who will let your spirit be free.”
“Right by his side. I love him. See, here’s the thing about Jude. As closed off and unapproachable as he seems to you and everyone else, that’s how open and loving he is with me. It’s always been there, that current in the air between us. Me, pushing his buttons to get a reaction, showing him life is about more than work and obligations; and him, not falling for my shit, calling me out, and forcing me to dig a little deeper and figure out I’m not the silly younger brother who needs to rely on his looks to get ahead.”
“Sounds like he knows you well.”
“I’m happier than I’ve ever been, so don’t worry about me.” Like the flare of fire on the head of a match, a glimmer came and went in Warren’s eyes. A twinge of sadness rippled through Mason. “I did care for you. I still do. I hope you know that.” He didn’t want to be the cause of anyone’s sadness.
“Of course. You can always count on me. For anything. And don’t worry, I’m not sitting and pining away.” Amusement brimmed in his eyes. “I’ve managed to go on despite you not being there.”
“How noble.” Mason snickered and pushed Warren’s shoulder lightly. “What a sacrifice it must’ve been.”
“You weren’t easy to get over. And now I guess I should leave so you can convince Staubman he has nothing to fear from my visit.”
A door opened, and Jude’s silhouetted figure emerged from the bedroom, phone in hand. “Edith called and asked me to help her with something, so I’m afraid I have to go.”
“Jude, stop being an idiot.” Mason left the couch and planted himself in Jude’s path. “If you think for one second I’m contemplating moving to London, you’re dumber than I thought.”
“So now you think I’m dumb?”
“If you’re going to act like it, then yeah, I’m going to call you out. Because you should know you have nothing to worry about, and I told Warren that. I love you, you dumbass.”
A flush darkened Jude’s cheeks. “You have such a way with words.”
“I can say it in several languages if you want to hear it.” Mason slipped his arm through Jude’s. “And I’ll come with you. Warren was about to leave.”
“Don’t rush on my account.”
“Mason’s right. Don’t be foolish with petty jealousy that has no basis in fact.” Warren rose from the couch. “I’ll accompany you out.”
On the way down the hall to the elevators, Mason saw Edith standing at the open door to her apartment. She waved and called out to them. “Who’s that good-looking man? Come over here and introduce me.”
Jude heaved out a sigh, but Warren laughed. “Who is that?”
“A character,” Mason murmured. “Her name’s Edith. Jude and I help her out since she lives alone. But don’t you dare say she can’t take care of herself.”
“Edith, what’s wrong? What do you need help with?” Jude asked as they approached.
“Let it wait a moment.” She waved at Jude and directed her gaze toward Warren. “Who is this handsome devil?”
“Edith, meet Warren Colchester. Warren, this is the one and only Edith Reynolds.”
Warren lifted her hand and kissed it. “Absolutely enchanted, madam.”
“Aren’t you a charmer? I was always a sucker for a British accent. Come inside. We can have some tea.”
“The ladies left already?” He couldn’t imagine Warren enjoying being swarmed by her friends.
“Yes. Della’s daughter needed an emergency babysitter—something about her husband getting hurt playing basketball, so when she left, they all followed.”
Jude held the door and swept his hand in front of him. “Might as well go inside. Whatever Edith wants, she gets, so it’s useless to argue.”
