“As a spouse and partner of someone who isn’t at the same level as the rest of you.”
Blaise frowned. He didn’t understand where this was coming from, especially when he’d always felt like the outsider among their group. “That doesn’t matter to us.”
“Maybe not, because we’re doing better each year, but it’s still a little different.” Laurel didn’t sound offended. “The six of you and Henry are used to the world revolving around you, but that’s not how it works for everyone else. Be nice to Hadley. If you keep dating her, and when whatever’s going on between you two runs its course, let her down easy. Don’t be the guy who breaks her heart.”
“You mean like Wes.”
“Before he got sick, yes. Adam, Mason, and Kieran used to be the same. Dash does it, too, but that’s because he’s clueless. You, however, are more evolved than the others. Don’t be like them, okay?”
“Okay.” Except Blaise wanted to be like the others. At the same time, he was trying to catch up and then pass them in net worth, but her words made him stand taller. “But you’re missing out by not writing a relationship self-help book.”
“Who’s writing a book?” Hadley asked, coming up next to him.
About time.He smiled at her. “I told Laurel she should.”
“I said no,” Laurel said.
“Then start a podcast,” he suggested with a wink before focusing his attention on Hadley. “Having fun?”
She nodded. “Thanks for inviting me.”
He slipped his right arm around her, but she didn’t come closer to him. “Glad you’re here.”
“The two of you should come to dinner this week.” Laurel bit her lip. “Would Thursday work? I think that’s the only day Brett is free.”
“I’ll check my schedule.” Dinner sounded like fun to him. “Does that work for you, Hadley?”
Her jaw jutted forward. “I won’t be in Portland, but thanks for the invite.”
Blaise grimaced. How could he have forgotten that she wouldn’t be in Portland during the week? “Hadley’s business has offices in San Francisco and New York.”
“We can do it another time.” Laurel didn’t hesitate replying. “I’m jealous, though. Our favorite bookstore is in San Francisco.”
He blew out a breath, thankful Laurel hadn’t asked more.
“Which one is that?” Hadley asked.
“Cassandra’s Attic,” Laurel said. “Brett’s done book signings there.”
Hadley’s features relaxed. “I take my niece and nephew to story time there. It’s a great bookstore.”
“Small world. Say hi to Cassie and Troy from us when you’re there next.” Laurel picked up a brownie. “I’m going to watch the end of the game.”
Hadley went to follow Laurel, but Blaise held on to her. He wasn’t letting her get away yet. “Wait a minute.”
“The game…”
“You can watch the highlights.”
Everybody cheered. Something must have happened.
As she exhaled, her shoulders drooped. “What?”
“How’s it going?”
She glanced toward the television, but her gaze wasn’t focused on the game. “Your friends are nice. Everyone cares a lot about you.”
More shouts erupted.
