She laughs and nods.“I’ll follow up with Paige and see if she needs anything.”
Paige is Nova’s mom and my aunt.We grew up in the same household, under the same roof.One big, not so happy family.
“It’s good to see you.How’s school?”Mom asks.She waits a beat before Dante wanders back inside.“I came by this week and watched the Narwhals.”
“You didn’t,” I say, my stomach plummeting.She saw me play worth shit.Wonderful.“Was Dante there?”
“Your father couldn’t make it,” Mom says.“He had other pressing matters to attend to.You know I really hate that you call him that.”
“It’s his name, isn’t it?”I point out.
Mom nods and shakes her head, defeated.“Yeah, I just wish the two of you could get along.”
“Maybe if he wasn’t a murderer—” I don’t say anything further because I catch sight of Harper walking up the long driveway in a bright red dress.“If you’ll excuse me,” I say and brush past her, not finishing our conversation.
“Luca,” Mom calls after me, but I ignore her as I hurry to catch up with Harper before she makes her way to the front entrance and chances running into Dante.
I jog across the lawn, ensuring that I catch up with her.The cold sting feels surprisingly good.“Harper!”
Her eyes widen, and a faint smile plays on her lips.She’s carrying a gift bag in one hand and a small overnight bag on her shoulder.“Let me help you with that,” I say, taking the heavier of the two items, slinging the bag over my arm.
“Thanks.I didn’t expect to see you here tonight,” Harper says.“I thought you might have practice or something.”
I wince, wondering if she’s referring to the shitty game we played last week.
“Wouldn’t miss Nova’s birthday party.”
“Even though she said it’s an all-girl’s sleepover and no boys are allowed?”Harper quips.She’s smiling, and I half-imagine she’s teasing me.
“Well, we’re like family, and this was my house growing up.”I point at the compound, which resembles a mansion.I haven’t stepped foot inside yet, and I’m waiting until the last possible moment when I have to go in.Maybe I can convince the girls to camp outside tonight, and I can watch their tent, make sure they’re safe.
“Wow,” Harper says, taking it all in.“It’s gorgeous.What does your family do for a living?”
The million-dollar question.
“Best you don’t ask that around here,” I whisper, nudging her as I lead her toward the backyard.
She sighs, and her heels sink into the soft grass.I grab her elbow, keeping her steady.Her legs are bare, the dress just above her knees.She’s got to be freezing.She didn’t even bother to button her coat.“You didn’t know the party would be outside, did you?”
“Nova didn’t mention it,” Harper says.“I should have probably asked.I’m a little overdressed for a slumber party, but I just came from?—”
“A hot date?”I guess, hoping that I’m dead wrong.
Harper shakes her head no and smiles.“A job interview for an internship for next semester.”
And she worethatensemble?It’s sexy, breathtaking, and makes her look hot, and sure, it could be seen as professional.It’s not exactly shimmery or revealing too much cleavage.It’s just so red that it screamshot and sexyto me, but everything she wears looks good on her.
I’ve also never seen her in a dress before today, and the longer I stare at her, the more I feel like a bull ready to charge.
My cock certainly notices every curve on her luscious body.
“I brought a pair of pajamas for tonight to change into, but I forgot to pack another set of clothes unless I wear tomorrow’s outfit now…” her voice trails off as she realizes her mistake.
“You can borrow something of mine,” I offer.
Harper’s eyes lighten up, relieved.“Are you sure?”
“It’s fine.I have a duffel bag around back.Take whatever you need.”I didn’t exactly bring extra clothes, but I’ll make do with what I have.
