Page 43 of Gabriel & Skye

“Because he’s too goddamned stubborn as well as grumpy,” Georgia says. “Though I heard he slept with Dolly Simpson, but in this town, who hasn’t? And let’s just say she went running back for more.”

This town just gets better and better with the gossip. “Who the heck is Dolly Simpson?”

“She’s the local beautician,” Celeste says. “She likes her variety of men, not that I’m saying there’s anything wrong with that.”

“So, did Hudson go back for more?” I ask. Not that I know the guy, but it’s clear Georgia has feelings for him.

“Not that I know of.” Georgia sounds lost in thought, before adding, “But it doesn’t matter to me if he did. That was ages ago, anyway. He can screw whoever he likes. It’s no concern of mine.”

“Yeah, you keep telling yourself that.” Celeste gives her a sympathetic smile.

“I’m better at helping others find love, or just giving them a friendly nudge in the right direction.” She smiles, waggling her eyebrows at me. “So, were any sparks flying between you and Gabe?”

“Georgia!” Celeste barks with laughter. “Seriously?”

I can’t help but laugh, too, even if I’m surprised by her outburst. She definitely calls it how she sees it.

“What?” Georgia feigns innocence as she blinks. “Can’t a girl just ask a simple question? I warned Skye that Gabe was broody and acts unemotional, but it’s all bullshit. She has to know the facts.”

“You did say he makes you want to scream like you’re having a body wax. Frustration and all of that,” I remind her.

“Ah, yes, that. It’s from being on his own for so long,” Georgia tells us. “He used to be a bit of a wild child — not that you’d believe it now with his silk ties and expensive suits. Gabe is considered quite the catch. Brooklyn is far too nonchalant, and Beau is in love with World of Warcraft. Gray is now taken, so that rules him out.”

I can see why Gabriel would be the catch of the county. He’s got it all.

“She has a sixth sense for these things.” Celeste nods, her eyes wide. “It’s kinda freaky.”

“Well, I believe everything happens for a reason,” I say. “And in the right time and place. I mean, look at Celeste’s story. Out of everything that happened, you found your Prince Charming. That gives hope to the rest of us.”

“So you’re in the singleton club too, I’m guessing?” Georgia asks sympathetically.

“Yes, and I have been for a while now. I was completing my studies after being a nurse for a few years, switching so late in my career cost me valuable time.”

“Wow, you’re a qualified nurse, too?”

“Yes, I just wasn’t cut out for it in the end. I much prefer working with kids. It’s my passion.”

“That’s wonderful.” Celeste smiles. “I took a few wrong turns myself in LA thinking that I was going to make it in the fashion world. Turns out, everything I always wanted was right here in Stoney Creek. I love what I do now.”

“And we love having you back.” Georgia gives her friend a wink.

“I needed a new start,” Celeste says. “Sometimes a reset is the best thing for you.”

“I completely agree.” I know how true that statement is.

“Well, I’m glad you’re going to be Trinity’s new nanny.” Georgia changes tact. “It’ll take the stress off Gabe, and now Geraldine can go on her cruise without having to worry.”

“He must’ve liked you.” Celeste piques an eyebrow. “He’s normally so weird about new people and his daughter.”

“Ugh,” says Georgia. “Tell me about it. Talk about the third degree, which I get, by the way. You just don’t know people these days.”

“I must be lucky,” I say, shrugging my shoulders. “Either that, or he’s desperate and has run out of options.”

“No way.” Georgia shakes her head. “He wouldn’t just put anyone in charge of Trin, believe me. We would’ve all had to take different days off to help him out until someone suitable came along.”

“Family sticks together.” I smile. “That’s really great you’re all so close. I know things must’ve been hard for Gabriel, being a single dad. It can’t be easy.”

Something washes over Georgia’s face and I instantly regret my comment.

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