Page 12 of Even Ground

She leans back in her chair, a smug smile on her face. “Don’t you forget it.”

“I’m beginning to think you’ve got a death wish,” Delaney says.

“I can’t help it if she doesn’t get my charm yet.” I wink at Pania, and the satisfaction of seeing her blush and drop her gaze makes me warm inside.

“If that’s what you’re aiming for, you’re missing your target.” Josh pats my shoulder. “As Delaney would say, do better.”

Delaney laughs, and I huff out a breath. “Fine. I’ll come with you. But I want to see the finished product when we get back.” I lock my gaze onto Pania, who’s no longer blushing. “And if you need an opinion on what you’re wearing …”

This time, just one of her eyebrows arch. “If I want your opinion, I’ll give it to you.”

I push my chair out and stand. “Sounds fair. Let’s go and get these shoes then, Joshua.”

“Stop that.”

I shoot a wink at Delaney. Josh hates being called Joshua. His mother usually only does it when she’s annoyed with him, but it’s enough to stop him wanting to be called that.

“See you ladies later. Don’t have too much fun without me.”

“Bye, Reece.” Amelia waves from across the table.

“See you later, little lady.” I blow her a kiss.

She giggles, and I also don’t miss Pania’s eyebrows rising yet again. She could tell a story just using them.

I raise my own eyebrows at the sight of Josh saying goodbye to Delaney. The wedding’s the day after tomorrow, but they almost look like they’re starting the honeymoon at the dining room table as he kisses her goodbye.

Pania’s gaze is fixed on me, and she fights a smile as I pretend to put my index finger down my throat and point at Josh and Delaney.

She bites her bottom lip, and for the first time, I notice the freckle just above her top lip. She sucks it in, still not laughing, and it disappears before reappearing.

I draw in a breath at the mesmerising sight.

After picking up my dishes, I head into the kitchen and place them in the dishwasher. Josh follows, and then we’re on our way out the door, leaving the ladies to themselves for the day.

He leads me down to the garage where his Mercedes waits.

“Do you really need new shoes?” I ask.

Unlocking the car, he pauses by his door. “I’m sure I could find a pair, but I think it’s important for us to take some time out with everything that’s going on.”

I open the door and sit in the passenger side, sinking into the seat. Truth is, I’m glad to be out and about with him and not cooped up in the house with wedding talk that will inevitably happen today and tomorrow.

I’m excited for him, but I’ll be glad when it’s over and life can return somewhat to normal. Tomorrow, the house gets invaded by the wedding planner, and I’ll probably hide somewhere until I’m actually needed.

Josh slides into the driver’s seat, does up his seat belt, starts the car, and pulls out onto the road.

“What is up with you?” he asks.

“Nothing. Why?”

He glances at me, tightening his grip on the steering wheel. “I can deal with the way you flirt with Delaney because we’re all friends, but you’re not usually this annoying.”

I shrug. “I don’t mean to be. Maybe it’s just a weird time right now, and I’m not sure how to deal with it.” Sighing, I look out the window instead of at him. “My best friend is getting married, and it’s the end of an era. Maybe that’s it.”

“It’s not like I was ever a big womaniser. I left that up to you.”

I look back at him. “Is that all you think of me?”

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