“She wouldn’t.” Lou had been in on it, and it was good to know her sister’s bestie was solid when it came to a plot for Kala’s own good.
Sometimes her sister didn’t listen to good advice and needed to be led to happiness by any means necessary.
Maybe Ben was the same way. Maybe Ben needed to be led to happiness because his tortured past had taught him not to trust joy.
“Well, I don’t care how it happened,” her mother admitted. “I’m happy my baby is happy and that she has someone she can talk to. It’s important.”
Her mother would know. So would her aunt. They’d both been through extensive therapy and both were still deeply involved in their women’s support group.
Devi gave Tasha a long hug. “I was there. I kind of think she cheated, too, but I’m smart enough to stay out of a Taggart twins showdown. I have to go. Love you, Cousin.” She turned to Kenzie. “You be careful with Ben, and watch each other’s backs. I’m going to need you guys because I’m pretty sure I’m getting married next year. I think Zach is going to pop the question soon.”
She blew the group a kiss and walked out. Kenzie was sure there was a bodyguard waiting to escort her cousin to the airport.
Lou stood, straightening her skirt. “She’s right. Zach already asked Theo and Erin for permission. It’ll be interesting to watch Zach let Devi dress him. I don’t think he knows what he’s in for. I’ll go make sure everyone is ready to pelt you with birdseed.”
Tasha frowned. “Maybe I should sneak out the back.”
Her mom took Tash’s hand. “Nope. The photographer is waiting. I want all the pictures, and you should prepare Dare for what’s waiting in Loa Mali. Yas promised to give you a couple of days, but she’s going towant at least a girls afternoon.”
Princess Yasmine, the future queen of Loa Mali, had been a playmate when they were young, and no one did a girls day like a real princess. It made Kenzie wish she was going to Loa Mali, but no, she would be running around looking for Huisman.
At least she would be with Ben.
Tasha moved in, putting her hands on Kenzie’s shoulders. “Be patient with him. He’s hurt and he might lash out, but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t need you. It doesn’t mean he doesn’t love you and that you won’t be right here in a year or so.”
“She’s right,” her mother agreed. “Patience, and you’ll probably want to punch him a couple of times.”
“But I shouldn’t.”
Her mom’s strawberry blonde hair shook. “Oh, no. Punch away if he crosses a line. It’s how your father knew I loved him. I’m sort of joking. Your dad was pissed when I came back. I’ll give you the same advice I gave Tash. Be patient and show him how good life can be with you.”
Kala made a vomiting sound. “That is not the advice you gave me.”
“You don’t take advice. Ever. Also, you were the one who was hurt, sweetie. Like your aunt here. You are the ones who needed patience from the men who loved you,” her mom pointed out.
“Did not,” Aunt Chelsea said under her breath.
But she had, and what her mom said was true. Patience and understanding would win her man.
And an enormous amount of generous, filthy sex.
Tasha stepped to the door, glowing and happy. Chelsea and her mom followed her.
Kala caught her arm and pulled her in for a hug.
Which was meaningful because Kala wasn’t generally affectionate, so Kenzie hugged her hard.
“I know you cheated, Kenz,” Kala whispered. “But I like Willow and I know sometimes you have to play dirty to help the ones you love.”
Kenzie pulled back but before she could argue, Kala leaned in again. “So don’t be surprised at the lengths I’ll go to for you.”
Kala kissed her cheek and strode away.
Kenzie prayed she could survive her sister’s “protection.”
Chapter Seven
Ben sat on Kenzie’s bed and let the events of the evening wash over him.
