“Show me what you’ve got,” Faith said.
“Yeah?”
“Two intelligent, hardworking women tackling spreadsheets over wine and takeout? Hell yes. Show me.”
Rainbow let out a snore that sounded like a small engine dying, her stubby legs twitching against Faith’s thigh. That ridiculous growth on her side bobbled with each breath.
Normally, I wouldn’t share something as personal as my income with anyone. But this was Faith. Nonjudgmental, ride-or-die Faith. I turned my laptop toward her and walked her through my five-year plan.
Thirty-six months to save for a down payment. Thirty-six months of discipline, sacrifice, and saying no to every impulse that tried to derail me.
Like that limited-edition hardcover of a book I already owned in three formats. Or that weighted blanket that promised to hug me to sleep. Or the kitchen gadget that made eggs into little heart shapes because, apparently, my breakfast needed to be romantic now. My online cart was a liar and an enabler, and I refused to negotiate with terrorists.
But at the end of that sacrifice was a house.Myhouse. A foundation.
Faith studied the spreadsheet, her brow furrowing. “You know, you could probably save up even faster than this.”
“Really?” I scratched my eyebrow, leaning closer. “I’ve gone over these numbers a hundred times.”
“You’re putting everything into a basic savings account.” She raised an eyebrow like I’d just admitted to storing cash under my mattress. “You remember Jace? The billionaire with an army of financial wizards? I’ve learned that when you’re saving for something big, you can put that money into accounts that actually earn something. Make your money work harder.”
Before I could respond, she was already pulling out her phone. “Is it okay if Jace comes by?”
I blinked. “Er …”
“Don’t worry. I’ll stay here when he comes over.”
“He’ll just … come over? A billionaire?”
“Of course.” She said it like I’d asked if water was wet. “All these guys literally drop everything to help. It’s kind of their thing.”
My eyes burned without warning. I swallowed hard against the sudden lump in my throat. “Why would they do that?”
Rainbow chose that moment to rip a fart so aggressive that Faith waved her hand in front of her face while the dog looked around in confusion, apparently startled by her own biological warfare.
“God, Rainbow.” Faith fanned the air. “We’ve discussed this. You’re supposed to be charming company.”
The dog’s tail wagged so hard, her entire back end wiggled, completely unrepentant.
Despite the chemical attack happening in my living room, I couldn’t let the question go. “Seriously, Faith, why would a bunch of guys I barely know drop everything to help me?”
Faith’s expression shifted, something warm and knowing settling into her features. “These guys are kind of like a little Mafia family. Once you’re in the club, you’re in. If you’re ever in trouble or need anything, they’ll drop everything. Every single one of them.”
“But I’m not in the club.”
Faith’s smile turned knowing. “Actually, you are.”
I stared at her.
“Knox sent out his Batman signal to the men. To protect you. Take care of you.”
I opened my mouth. Closed it. Opened it again. “He didwhat?”
“Yeah. And it’s no small thing. These men will move mountains for you. All you have to do is point them to which mountain you want moved.” She ticked off her fingers. “They can call in an army of lawyers likethat. If you’re scared of your ex?They can surround this place with bodyguards. Whatever you need.”
The lump in my throat swelled until I couldn’t speak around it.
Too much. That’s what I wanted to say. This wastoo much.
