Page 7 of Even Ground

She tucks herself in behind Reece’s back, and I follow them as he steps sideways out of the room.

Josh stands just outside the door.

“I wasn’t sure if it was okay to come in,” he says to me.

“Delaney’s upstairs getting changed, but I think someone else doesn’t want you to see.” I point to where Amelia is hiding.

He grins, and gives me a knowing nod.

“Has anyone seen Amelia?” he asks.

“Not me,” Reece says. “I have no idea where she is.”

“Guess I’m going to have to wait for that hug.”

Melly giggles, then slams her hand over her mouth.

“What was that noise?” Josh looks around.

I shrug. “I think you’re hearing things.”

“You should get your hearing checked, old man.” Reece turns his head and winks at me. I almost turn into a puddle on the living room floor.

“Old? You’re six months older than I am.” Josh laughs.

Reece looks back at Melly. “You ready to move?”

She nods, giggling again.

He reaches behind and clasps her hands in his before taking another step sideways, and then another. One step at a time, they make their way toward the hallway that leads to the bedrooms, Melly laughing the whole way.

Josh walks toward me, shaking his head. “How did today go?”

“It went well. Your bride looks beautiful.”

He grins. “No offence, but she could wear a sack and she’d still be the most beautiful girl to me.”

“Offence not taken, but that’s because she’s my BFF and I agree.”

Josh never has to tell me how he feels about Delaney. It’s so clear by that lovestruck look in his eyes. And I love that he wears his heart on his sleeve as far as Delaney and Amelia are concerned. He’s everything Delaney ever deserved, and I know he’ll love her forever.

“Are you settling in okay?” he asks. He’s been working at his new production company during the day, and he and Reece are making a movie of their own. It’s all so exciting, and I feel like I should be asking him the same question given that he’s no longer tripping around the world to make films. At least, not for now.

I nod. “It’s all a little overwhelming, but Delaney’s happy and that’s all that matters to me.”

“I’m glad I have your approval.” He flicks a glance toward the door. “I hope Reece was behaving.”

“We just met.”

Josh laughs. “Yeah, but he has a habit of being a bit much. Although, I think I know you well enough to assume you can handle him.”

“Handle who?” Reece walks back in.

“I’m just warning Pania about you. Not that I think she needs warning. I’m sure Delaney’s told her everything.”

“From what I’ve heard, I’m sure Pania can handle me just fine.” Reece flashes me that smile again, and my stomach flips. I’m not sure I can take two weeks of this.

“Oh, I’ve seen her in action. I’m pretty sure Pania can handle anything.” Josh winks at me, and I look down at my feet. I know I can be pretty intimidating when I want to, but I’m not sure my nerves could stand up to my Hollywood crush. I lift my gaze again, and he’s studying me closely with a small smile on his face. “She threw me out of their diner once. Too much testosterone, she said.”

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