I point a finger at him. “He does have a point.”
“It’s not like she’s going to use anything against you outside of the rink,” Nick says. “Unless you do something stupid.”
“Liable with this guy.” Cash smacks me in the bicep.
“Asshole. I make great decisions.”
“Like getting married when you’re drunk in Vegas?” Troy asks.
“That was a great decision,” I clarify.
The doorbell rings again, and Alice walks over to grab it.
“Leon. Jacob. I’m so glad you could make it.” She hugs both of them.
“Sorry we’re late,” Jacob bemoans. “Someone had to change his outfit a few times.”
I walk over to where they’re standing and take the flowers from Leon’s hands. “These look great.”
“Andyoulook great,” Alice says. “And the flowers.”
“Thank you.” Leon pecks her on the cheek. “We mostly left on time, but you know traffic out here.”
“Just in time. Let’s get you a drink and then we can eat.”
They follow Alice into the kitchen as Cash calls attention to him.
“I think a toast is in order before dinner,” Cash says. Everyone holds up their drinks as he continues. “It’s been great having you on the team, Paddy, and I’m glad we can allget together before the season officially starts next week to celebrate your wedding.”
Grabbing Alice’s hand, I pull her close. “I love being a part of this team, and I appreciate you guys being so welcoming to both of us.”
“It’s been great,” Alice agrees. “It’s nice having girlfriends.”
“Excuse me,” Leon interjects. “What am I?”
“You’re still one of my closest friends here. That’s not changing,” she answers.
“Good.” He blows her a kiss.
“You’re more than welcome to hang out with all of the girls too, Leon,” Piper says.
“I like you,” Leon tells her.
Alice squeezes me close, and I know how much it means to her to have these people in her life. I know Leon and I joked about her not having much work-life balance, but she loves Enchanted Petals, and it’s hard to pull her away from it.
For them to readily accept her as part of the group? I know she loves it.
“Okay, time to eat,” I say.
“Thank God. I’m starving.” Cash goes into the kitchen and grabs a plate to help himself to barbecue.
“What he means to say is thanks.” Piper shakes her head. “I can’t take him anywhere.”
“Hey, they like me. It’s okay.”
“So you think,” Troy calls back.
Cash flips him the bird.
