When Alex was home with nothing to do but think, that’s when the memories held their true strength. Her dreams were even worse, as her subconscious had decidedly turned against her by showing detailed replays of that night on a torturous loop.
Over and over, she was forced to relive every hot, pulsating moment. Every morning, she’d wake up filled with an aching need she couldn’t seem to ease.
There was only one person capable of accomplishing that feat. A man she desperately wanted to forget.
He’d already forgotten her, or at least that’s how it seemed. Colt hadn’t reached out once since that weekend, which left her both disappointed and relieved.
Alex feared her conflicting emotions were symptoms of something that went far beyond her physicalcravings. Because lately, she found herself thinking that maybe, just maybe she was ready for more.
“Alex?”
She blinked to find Avery staring back with an expectant expression. “Sorry, what?”
“Did you even hear a word I just said?”
Had she?
“Of course, I did.” Alex smiled. “You and Garrett wanted to wait a bit to tell people, which is totally understandable.”
As for whatever else her sister had shared, Alex didn’t have a clue.
“I’m glad you understand. Trust me, it’s beenkillingme not to say something to you before now. But hey, speaking of that, if you happen to talk to any of the others before tonight, please don’t say anything just yet. We’re planning to make the announcement tonight, since everyone will already be there. It’ll be a lot easier with the whole gang in one place.”
The whole gang?
“What’s tonight?”
Her sister rolled her pretty eyes with a muttered, “Very funny.” When Alex didn’t laugh, Avery’s gaze grew wide. “Tonight’s the cookout, remember?” She waited. “We invited you and the team to the house for dinner. . .”
“You did?” Alex tried to remember.
“Like a week ago. I sent you a text, and you immediately responded. Said you’d be there and promised to bring a couple bottles of wine.”
Oh, crap.
“That’stonight?” The memory of the aforementionedtext rushed back to the surface. Alex glanced at her watch. “What time is it again?”
“We told everyone six-thirty, but you’re welcome to come over whenever.”
“Six-thirty.” She nodded. “Got it. I’ll be there, don’t worry. I can stop for the wine on my way to your place. Any requests?”
“Get whatever kind you want, because I obviously won’t be able to drink it.”
The baby, remember?
“Right. Do you want me to get you some soda or juice, or something else instead?”
“Thanks, but I’m covered. Garrett stocked up on ginger ale to help with the nausea.”
Guilt assaulted Alex when she realized she hadn’t even thought to ask how she was feeling.
“Has it been bad?”
“Not horrible.” Her sister shrugged. “It usually hits first thing in the morning. The only time I feel it later in the day is when I’ve let too much time pass between snacks or meals. Other than that and sore boobs, I’ve felt pretty good.”
Alex chuckled. “Well if you change your mind, or think of anything else y’all need, let me know. I’m happy to stop and pick up whatever.”
“Thanks, Al. And thanks for keeping our secret a little longer. Garrett wanted to tell everyone all at once, but you’re my sister.” Avery shrugged. “Apart from my husband, I wanted you to be the first to know.”
