Page 7 of Bedding The Best Man (Bedding the Bachelors)

His rugged profile was backlit against the lights coming from the reception behind them. He seemed to be deliberately keeping his eyes away from her, even as his thumb ran back and forth over her knuckles. It was difficult to concentrate on his question when all she could think about was the feel of his thumb on her skin.

“Of course,” Bri said with a smile. “We walked on the beach.”

“And you wondered how many people the ocean was touching at the same time. And what their problems were. You said your problems probably paled in comparison.”

She laughed softly. “Wow. Did you take dictation when I wasn’t looking?”

“No. I just never forgot it.”

She almost missed Gabe’s words, the noise from the reception and the waves on the sand nearly drowning them out. He spoke softly, like he didn’t want her to hear.

“So what are you trying to say? That I should dip my toes in the water and remember how small my problems are in comparison to the rest of the world?”

“Maybe.” He grinned at her.

“You’re just full of wisdom tonight,” she smirked.

“I’m only trying to help, is all. I hated seeing you sitting out here alone.”

Brianne sighed. He was the last person she should be snipping at. “I’m sorry for being sarcastic.”

He shrugged it off. “Can you stand just one more bit of fortune cookie wisdom tonight?”

“I’ll try to stomach it.” Really, she wanted to be with him. It didn’t matter what he said, as long as he was there.

“I’ve known you, what, six years?” he continued. “A long time. And you’ve always put others first. I mean, my God. You’re a charity event coordinator.”

She listened to him talk, the deep timbre of his voice soothing and exciting at the same time. She’d always loved listening to him speak, always had to stop herself from hanging on his every word when she and Eric were with him. She had to focus hard on what he was saying, rather than simply enjoying the sound.

Brianne blushed, aware that Gabe’s assessment was in line with how most people saw her—as some ridiculous do-gooder who was always getting involved in other people’s business. The truth was, she was the daughter of a billionaire; she had her own trust fund and the ability to buy herself whatever she wanted. She splurged on silly things just like everyone else.

“I’m no saint,” she protested. “You just see me the way you want to see me.”

“Bri, I see you,” he said, looking intently into her eyes. “It’s time to step up and be the star in your own life, and then maybe you’ll get that happily ever after you want. But even if you don’t, at least you’re being you for your own sake. Go after what you want and let the rest of us fend for ourselves for a bit.” He squeezed her hand.

“Thanks, Gabe,” she said softly.

“You’re welcome,” he said, and leaned in to kiss her cheek.

She stiffened, not with unease, but with intense awareness. His mouth made her skin tingle, just as his thumb had when it stroked her hand. Heat radiated from him, and his cologne was intoxicating. She closed her eyes, sinking into the sensation.

When he pulled back, their lips were close, so close she could feel his breath on her face.

Her lips parted, and her tears were all but forgotten. It would be so easy to just lean into him, to let their lips touch, to see if the spark she’d always thought would be there would indeed flare to life.

But I can’t, she thought, her heart hammering beneath her shimmering dress.

Even if he was attracted to her, and there was no reason to think he was, Eric stood between them and always would. Gabe was only a good friend, and he saw her as more of a sister than anything else. Someone he could protect, look out for. Nothing more.

For a second, his face an inch from hers, he stared at her, then his expression went blank and he pulled away.

“Eric is fucking insane for doing what he did,” he spat quietly, grinding his teeth.

“Gabe,” she began, feeling compelled to defend Eric but not sure how to do that without revealing her own darkest secrets, secrets she wasn’t ready to share with anyone, least of all him.

“No, wait. Let me finish. Eric is my best friend. He’s been like a brother to me for a long time,” he said, forcing a tight smile. “But you’re my friend, too,” he said, a hint of sadness reaching his eyes. He reached up and brushed an errant lock of dark hair off her forehead, and tucked it behind her ear. “Don’t forget that,” he whispered.

She frowned, not knowing what to say. She decided to remain silent and swallowed hard, then sighed. She just wanted to be small and invisible. She hugged her knees back to her chest, wishing the sand would swallow her whole.

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