Page 39 of Chasing the Sun

She’d been raising the lemonade glass to her mouth and paused. “Um…”

“It’s not like a date or anything. It would just give you something to do other than staying here alone.”

She had no idea what Bryce’s plans were for the weekend, but he’d probably go golfing and maybe get together with his dentist friend again. The other scenario was also daunting. He could be home all weekend, and she’d have to tiptoe around and try not to obsess over him. Going to Seb’s place might provide the perfect distraction.

“I’m not very good at cards.”

He smiled. “You don’t have to be. Just come and hang out, have a few drinks, and meet some people. It’ll be fun.”

“Okay,” she said, nodding.

Just then, she heard the front door open and close, and she sat up straighter. Her boss was home.

A few seconds later, he entered the living room, his eyes darting from Seb to Chloe and back again. “You blocked the driveway,” he said, scowling at Seb.

“Well, hello to you too. You could have gotten around my bike.”

“Not without driving on the grass.”

“Heaven forbid,” Seb replied sarcastically.

Chloe watched their interaction with fascination. She couldn’t tell if there was real animosity between them or if this was just a typical brotherly exchange.

Then Bryce looked directly at her and said, “I see you’ve met my brother.”

She nodded and smiled enthusiastically, although she wasn’t sure that was the reaction he was looking for.

“I hope he wasn’t harassing you.”

Seb laughed. “We were just getting to know each other.”

Bryce ignored him. “Everything go okay with Molly?”

“Yes.”

“So, what brings you by?” Bryce said, turning his attention back to Seb.

She noticed he hadn’t sat down, and he looked tense compared to Seb, who was casually sipping his lemonade.

“I just came by to see my niece and meet Chloe.”

“This is Victoria’s weekend with Molly.”

“I realized that when she came to pick her up.” Seb stood up, and Chloe noticed he was a couple of inches taller than Bryce but not as formidable. Bryce wore a disgruntled expression, and she got the distinct impression he wanted Seb to leave. What was it between these two?

Ignoring his brother, Seb turned to her and said, “See you around seven. Your boss can give you my address.”

Chloe stood too, wishing she could escape. The tension between the brothers was palpable. “Okay. I’ll see you later.”

Seb nodded and sauntered out of the room. She heard him set the lemonade glass on the kitchen counter, and then the front door closed, leaving her and Bryce alone.

“You’re going out with him?” he asked incredulously.

“Not exactly. He’s having friends over, and he invited me to come.”

Bryce shoved his hands in his pockets. “I don’t think that’s a good idea.”

Her mouth dropped open. “What?”