“Yes, sir. Sorry we’re late.”
“It’s fine. Take a seat.” He holds his hands toward the two open seats by Parker and Piper. Apparently, everyone knew Paula would need to be around friendly faces tonight.
Pierce doesn’t acknowledge us. He’s either still mad about his sister intentionally ignoring him, or at me for scolding him. I have a feeling that doesn’t happen to him too often.
“How was your walk on the beach?” Parker leans in front of me to ask his sister.
“It was fine.” Paula huffs. “But don’t think we won’t be talking about you going through my phone later.”
“I don’t know what you’re talking about.” He gasps and puts his hand over his heart.
At the same time Piper says, “I thought I was the only one who did that.”
“What?” Paula’s head snaps to her sister.
I don’t know what I would do with this sort ofinvasion of privacy. There truly are no secrets in this family. Well, except that I’m not really Paula’s boyfriend. Hell, I’m barely a friend.
“It might be time to put a passcode on your phone.” I chuckle and bump into Paula.
“Won’t help.” Piper sighs. “I would figure it out.”
“Or lock me out of my phone.” Paula grumbles. She glances at her siblings. “Why haven’t you eaten? Your food is getting cold.”
“We were waiting for you.” Parker says as he grabs a fry and pops it in his mouth. “We couldn’t let you eat alone.”
“What am I? Chopped liver?” It’s like all of them forgot I even exist.
“No.” Piper laughs. “But since you’re together, you’re counted as one unit. I don’t make the rules.”
Not going to lie, I like the way it sounds being one unit with Paula. If I push too hard, she’ll shut me down faster than I can get the words out of my mouth. I’d rather not show my hand before I know where she stands. There are moments like now when she leans into me while talking with her family that I think there may be something there. That I’m not the only one who feels the sparks between us. Time will tell, and I’m not willing to rush it.
Our food arrives and we chat with everyone while eating. Phillip is peppering me with questions about Crooked Halo. He might be their biggest fan. I have to make a meeting happen between him and Dale. EvenPeter is joining in the conversation. Maybe he’s softening up toward me.
Pierce, however, keeps most of his attention on his parents. I can’t figure out what they are talking about since he’s on the opposite end of the table. It looks serious, though. Hopefully Paula isn’t the topic because I’ll step in if she needs me to. I’m not scared to go to bat for her.
We finish up our conversations, and the restaurant is clearing out. I’m not even sure how long we’ve been here. The food has been long gone, but the time has been enjoyable.
This time with all the siblings in one spot has let me learn a bit more about them. Piper and Parker are more laid-back versions of Paula. Phillip goes with the flow and isn’t bothered by much. Peter is more like Pierce, but he seems more approachable, less hardened by life.
Pierce, I’m sure someone could write a dissertation on the chip is has on his shoulder. He’s very serious, and I don’t think I’ve seen him crack a smile once. I hope whatever his problem is, he drops it in regards to Paula.
“Are we ready to head home?” Abigail allows Paul to help her slide on her jacket before grabbing her purse. “I’m pretty sure they are closing soon, and we’re the last ones here.”
“Actually,” Piper says. “I think I may head to the bar by the beach and have a few drinks. Anyone want to join me?”
Parker raises his hands as if he’s a student waiting tobe called on. Even Phillip and Peter add their hands to the mix.
I lean over and whisper, “We’ll do whatever you want. We can go out with your siblings, or head back to the beach house.”
Piper seems to sense her sister’s indecision, and asks, “What about you big brother. You gonna come hang out with the rest of the brood?”
“I think I’m going to call it a night. We have to get up early to check out a winery.”
“Oh, well have fun with that.” She waves.
“All of us are going.” He gives Paula a pointed look. She simply nods in response.
“So, what do you want to do?” I ask again.
