Page 9 of Risky Move

He nodded with a megawatt smile. “Been there several times. A real hardship having to live in that house.”

“Do you live in the same neighborhood?”

His rueful smile didn’t hide the teasing spark in his silver eyes. “I wish. Entry-level contracts don’t make a down payment on a condo in that neighborhood.” He leaned against her shoulder to speak in a soft voice. “I stayed with John and Kelly Peterson for the second half of this season.”

“But not any longer?”

“Got my own place. I found something near the Bay. I’m ready to have some privacy…you understand?”

Cassie’s stomach did a little somersault when he winked. She replied as the curtain opened. “Perhaps we can chat later?”

* * *

Cassie let her mind wander while her aunt spoke about her experiences with cyber bullying. She knew what Lauren had faced, and it was too painful to hear the story again.Luckily, she has Dave standing beside her…everything a girl could want in a guy…yet; it took them four years to admit their feelings for each other. At least Lauren. I’d have snatched him as fast as I could. Like I’d have a chance—I’m still a kid in his eyes…Lauren’s “little sister.”The small age difference between them caused Lauren to treat her more like a younger sister. Growing up in the same home had forged a strong bond between them that went far beyond the typical aunt-niece relationship.Lauren’s my best friend.

She snuck a glance at the guy beside her, as Cam listened to everything Lauren and Dave said.Bet he has women chasing after him.

As if feeling her eyes on him, Cam glanced her way and flashed a smile. He raised an eyebrow, and Cassie dropped her eyes, feeling her cheeks grow warm. She focused on the stage, realizing that Lauren and Dave wrapped up their talk. She jumped to her feet as the crowd rose and applauded them, then watched in stunned silence as Dave surprised Lauren by dropping to one knee to propose.Say yes, Lauren. Don’t keep him hanging!She saw Lauren struggle to speak, then just nod furiously as she pulled him to his feet.

“So romantic.” Cassie’s vision blurred from tears of joy.

“Did you know?” Cam Camden’s voice pulled her eyes away from the stage.

“About the proposal? Not a word. I don’t think Lauren expected it either. I’m so excited for them!”Maybe she’ll ask me to be a bridesmaid?Cassie dismissed the thought and looked at the man beside her. “You’renotsurprised?”

“Figured it was a matter of time. I got the message, and Mr. Martin realized we’re only friends.”

A giggle escaped her mouth. “What, did he tell you to back off?”

“One way to put it.” Camden shook his head. “Took him a while to accept our friendship.” He nodded toward the area in front of the stage where friends had gathered. “I’m heading over there. I can get you through the crowd.”

“Thanks, I’ll wait here for Caryn and Andrew.”

“You want to get something to eat later?” His grey eyes captured hers.

Cassie hesitated. She hoped to visit with her favorite doctor or perhaps meet the famed Katie. “I’m not sure about tonight…Long day for everyone…” With a wink, Cam handed his phone to her.

“Maybe before I head home for the summer, then. Call yourself; I’ll have your number—and you won’t block me as an unknown caller.”

“I’ll think about it.” She noticed that his eyes darkened at her teasing comment. “When do you leave for…?”

“Québéc, in a couple days. I’ll call you. Do I need Lauren’s blessing to ask you out?” His cocky grin caused Cassie to laugh.

“Nope. Only one permission slip required—my own.”

“Look forward to it.” A quick hug, along with another devilish grin, caused Cassie’s legs to wobble like Jell-O. She sat down and watched him strut toward the crowd.

Have dinner with him…a date?Her eyes lingered on his broad shoulders before appreciating the way his tailored jeans hugged his lower body.He slid through the crowd, and Cassie sighed as he disappeared.That’s one smoking hot guy…who knows it.

She heard Caryn and Andrew talking and stood to greet them. “Did you have any idea?”

“That’s what I wanted to askyou!”Caryn said. “From her reaction, Lauren didn’t expect it at all.” She glanced at Andrew.

“Don’t look at me. Not something guys discuss.” Andrew’s smirk reminded Cassie of Tom.Maybe I can tell him the happy news…

“Looks like Kelly and Terri plan to kidnap Lauren from that crowd.” Caryn pulled her phone from her purse and tapped a text.

Andrew leaned to kiss Caryn’s cheek. “I’ll give Dave my congratulations. Just tell me when you’re ready to leave.”

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