Page 96 of Enchanting the CEO

“That’s our role," Zoey clarified.

"And we're damn good at it," Natalie added.

Jake kissed her cheek. "You are."

I smiled as we walked toward the ice cream shop. "Each of you has a role?" I asked Gabe.

"Yes. At least it’s true of us guys. Not sure how they roped Natalie, Penny, Zoey and Meredith into it."

"Because we're opportunistic," Cade said. "We realized they're much better at talking Grandmother into... well, letting us make life easier for her."

"We have to be careful, though," Penny said, "because she might catch on."

Gabe laughed in my ear as we stepped inside the ice cream shop. "Knowing Grandmother, she already has, but she wants to indulge you."

Once inside, everyone went to look at the display freezer, inspecting the flavors. I already knew what I wanted, so I stayed to one side. I was immediately flanked by Meredith and Natalie.

"So... we couldn't help overhearing that you'll be at the party," Natalie said.

I grinned. "I'm excited. Anything I should know? What's his name?"

"Abe. He doesn't want us to make a fuss—according to the guys," Meredith replied.

"Any advice? I appreciate the insider info."

"Honestly, Jeannie already met you, and you've got her approval," Zoey said.

I was sure I looked stunned. "I do?"

"Oh yeah, definitely. Between you and me, I think she's got serious plans for you and Gabe," Natalie said.

I laughed nervously. "Look, he and I... I mean, we're not making any long-term plans."

Meredith blinked. "Really? Hmm."

Natalie frowned, looking at Meredith. "Right."

Zoey didn’t reply at all.

I shrugged. "I mean, construction on Gabe's house will eventually finish and he’ll move out, so..."

Zoey nodded. "I see."

"I've known from the beginning that he's not into long-term relationships, so it's not like I’m expecting it or anything."

“If you’re sure...,” Zoey said.

Natalie and Meredith exchanged a glance but didn't say anything else.

"Don't you want ice cream?" I asked them.

"Sure we do. We're just letting everyone else choose first," Meredith replied.

The two of them walked to the counter, and I looked inside it too. Gabe put a hand around my waist, kissing my cheek. I leaned into him, absorbing the strength and heat of his body. I didn't even care that we were in public. Not that we were indecent or anything.

"You were amazing back there," he murmured.

"Thank you for this day. It's wonderful."

---