“His—” Margie whips toward me, eyes huge. “You have a girlfriend? Since when? Why didn’t you tell me?”
“It’s new,” I manage, finding my voice. My hand tightens around Tessa’s without conscious decision. “Didn’t want to jinx it.”
“Oh my God!” Margie’s shock is rapidly transforming into delight. She grabs Tessa’s free hand, practically vibrating. “I can’t believe this. Archie never dates anyone. Like, never. I was starting to think he’d die alone.”
“Margie.”
“What? It’s true!” She’s beaming at Tessa now, sizing her up with obvious approval. “Where did he find you? How long has this been going on? Why is he keeping you a secret?”
Tessa laughs—that same full, unguarded sound from before—and squeezes my hand. “We met at a coffee shop, actually. I spilled my latte on his coat, and he was so grumpy about it that I offered to pay for dry cleaning.”
“That tracks,” Margie says solemnly. “He’s the grumpiest.”
“I’m right here,” I point out. This woman is taking her role as my fake girlfriend a little too seriously. But then, she’s also not intimidated by my sister, and that says a lot. I’m a former Army Ranger, and sometimes my sister intimidatesme.
“I know, honey.” Tessa pats my chest with her free hand, her eyes dancing with barely contained amusement. “We love your grumpy face.”
My sister looks like she might actually cry from happiness. Cecilia has already started backing toward the door, pulling out her phone with the universal expression of someone who needs to be literally anywhere else. That’s usually my move.
“I should go,” Cecilia says. “Nice to meet you all.”
“Oh! Cecilia, I’m so sorry…” Margie starts.
“It’s fine! Really!” Cecilia’s already gone, the door swinging shut behind her.
Margie turns back to us, not even pretending to be sorry about the botched setup. “Okay, you have to come to the gala.”
“What gala?” I ask, but I already know. Margie’s been talking about this for months.
“The Valentine’s Day charity gala! I’m part of the organizing committee, remember? It’s going to be gorgeous, and now you can actually bring someone instead of lurking in the corner pretending to check your email.” She grabs Tessa’s arm. “Please say you’ll come. It’s next Saturday. Black tie, open bar, dancing.”
“Margie, she doesn’t have to—”
“I’d love to.”
I stare at Tessa. She stares back, as if daring me to challenge her. What the actual fuck just happened?
“Really?” Margie squeals.
“Really.” Tessa’s smile softens, almost shy. “I haven’t been to a gala in ages. And someone has to keep this one from lurking in corners.”
Margie hugs her—actually hugs her—and Tessa hugs her back like they’ve known each other for years.
“I have to run. Brad’s waiting in the car, and we have dinner reservations. I’m so happy for you, Archie! It’s about time.”Margie points at me. “Don’t screw this up, Archie. This woman is a keeper.”
“How would you even know that?” I ask, but she’s already heading for the door, tossing a wave over her shoulder. This has completely spiraled out of control. All I wanted was to avoid a blind date, not end up committed to going to a charity ball on fucking Valentine’s Day.
The Velvet Arrow settles back into its ambient hum. Tessa’s hand is still in mine.
I should let go. But I don’t want to.
“So,” she says, turning to face me. The mischief is back in her eyes. “Valentine’s Day gala, huh?”
“You didn’t have to do that.”
“I know.” She finally slips her hand free, and I miss the warmth of it immediately. “But your face was priceless. And your sister seems sweet.”
“She’s a menace.”
