Page 84 of The Summer Plans

“When I flipped to Mr. July, a slip of paper fell out, so I jotted my notes on it. Later that night, when I was typing up my story, I read what was on the other side. It was a list of all the qualities you wanted in a partner. I figured you made it after we’d teased Lucy to make her list.”

“This is humiliating.”

“Why?”

I look at her like she’s grown two heads, but she continues. Raven doesn’t always pick up on the clues I’m dropping. “I’m sorry if I invaded your privacy. But when I looked over your list, I knew what I had to do. You wanted someone who listened, who made you laugh, made you think, and challenged you. A man who was smart yet kind. Dependable. RJ is all those things. Hell, you practically described all his physical attributes on there too. Skinny, blond, glasses⁠—”

“I believe it said slutty little glasses.”

Raven dry heaves. “Please don’t ever use the words slutty to describe my brother again.”

“Sorry.”

“Your list described RJ, and it was tucked into his calendar spread. And after everything you went through with Todd, I didn’t want to see you get hurt again. And I knew RJ was still crazy about you, so I double-booked you on purpose.”

I break out into a fit of laughter.

“What’s so funny?”

“It’s just… that’s so something you would do. And I can’t believe I didn’t figure it out sooner.”

“Well, I am really clever.”

“Between this plan, Kristopher’s sexuality, and all the secret houses, I feel like I barely know you. What else are you hiding from me?”

“Kristopher’s sexuality wasn’t my story to tell. As for the houses, they were his family’s. I never thought he would pass away and leave everything to me. And you know me, I’m a very private person, and money changes things. People treat you differently, and I didn’t want that. Sure, it let me pursue some hobbies I’d always wanted to, but I didn’t want my life to change. I wanted to keep working. I like writing for the paper. Plus, I needed the distraction and routine. While we may not have been in love, I deeply loved Kris.”

“I know you did. That much was obvious.” I offer her a warm smile.

“But even though I’ve never been in love, I recognize it when I see it. And you, Lucy, and Bella talk about it enough with all those romance books you read.” She bumps her shoulder against mine. “I knew you and RJ loved each other. I’d never want to stand in the way of that.”

“This feels like a hug kind of moment.” I open my arms. She leans in slightly and I close the distance, giving her a quick squeeze.

Then she narrows her eyes. “Please tell me he didn’t give you some stupid nickname.”

“Darlin’,” I say with a smile.

“Seriously, how did all my friends end up with idiots that don’t understand the concept of a nickname being shorter than your name?”

“I love the way your brain works.”

She quirks a brow.

“Nicknames don’t have to be shorter. It can be a term of endearment, or a word that reminds you of that person. I had a dog as a kid that had like eight names. Nicknames can be anything, but I appreciate that your brain thinks of them that way and I hope you find someone that shortens your name for you.”

A soft huff escapes her as she rolls her eyes. “I’m not looking for anyone any time soon. There’s way too much going on in my life to ever consider juggling anything else.”

“The right person will be a blessing to you, not a burden.”

Lines crease her forehead as if my words don’t set her at ease the way I intended for them to.

“Can we go inside? My ass hurts sitting on this concrete porch,” Raven groans as she stands.

“Sure, I’m hungry anyway.” I follow her, popping a piece of gum into my mouth.

I’ll never get over these views. The kitchen is open-concept with granite countertops and custom cabinetry. This place probably cost Kris’s family millions.

“I’m going to change real quick,” I call over my shoulder. When I reemerge in a set of loose-fitting pajamas, Raven eyes me suspiciously.