Page 69 of Forbidden King (Magnolia Falls)

“Are they still bummed they couldn’t come with?” Brinkley asked.

“Yes. But Hadley had soccer practice, and Paisley had dance class, so Jace was taking them to their activities today. Monroe is just happy to be along for the ride with her sisters.”

Ashlan smiled, and it was easy to see how much she loved her girls.

“They sound adorable. And how’s your little guy doing?” Demi asked Georgia.

“Oh, he’s doing so great. About to have his first birthday next month. I can’t believe how fast it’s going.”

They both opened their phones and showed the photos of their adorable kids. I was immediately relaxed, and all the nerves over meeting Ashlan were gone.

“There is a huge line forming out front,” Peyton said as she looked out the window.

“Let’s do this.” Ashlan took the chair behind the table that I’d set up for her to sign books today. She’d had a few boxes of books sent here for the signing, and we were ready for business.

I pushed the door open, and my eyes widened when I realized the line wrapped around the block. Everyone was here to meet her, and I couldn’t be happier.

Romance was alive and well in Magnolia Falls.

Ashlan was a champ, signing books while making small talk with readers.

When Midge approached the table with Janelle from Sweet Magnolia’s, I was just bringing Ashlan a fresh glass of sweet tea.

“So give me the dirty details, Ashlan. Where do you get your inspiration for the sex scenes?” Midge asked, and I shot her a look, making it clear that I was horrified.

Janelle’s head fell back in laughter. “Midge, that’s a bit much, even for you.”

“Come on, now,” Midge said. “She writes romance. We’re all grown-ups here. I follow you on social media, and I’ve seen that hot husband of yours.”

“Oh my gosh, Midge. Stop.” Demi shook her head and then used her hand to contain her laughter.

“It’s fine.” Ashlan shrugged. “I get my inspiration everywhere. But yes, my husband is one sexy man, isn’t he?”

“Damn, she’s getting better at handling these questions,” Georgia said to just me and Brinkley, who were standing to the side now.

“She’s so easy to talk to. I can’t thank you both enough for setting this up.” I was beyond grateful to them for putting this together.

“Don’t give it a thought. You’re family to Demi, which makes you family to us. And our cousin Ashlan is as nice as they come. I knew she’d do it in a heartbeat to help you kick off your grand opening,” Brinkley said.

“This is so fun. And we were thrilled to come to Magnolia Falls for the day.” Georgia was as down to earth as her sister. Demi had told me that Georgia’s husband had a private plane, and they’d flown in for the day with Ashlan from Honey Mountain.

Apparently, it was nothing for Brinkley, whose husband was one of the most famous quarterbacks in the NFL, and she flew all over the country with him, as well.

“Well, it means the world to me. And I’m glad we’ll have time to grab dinner before you head back tonight.” I was looking forward to relaxing and hanging out afterward, as I’d been anxious about getting everything ready for today. But if I were being totally honest, I was very distracted about tomorrow. I’d be going to see my father and his family, and I was nervous about it. The fact that Kingston was going with me made me feel much better, but that was another issue I was struggling with, too.

I was attracted to him.

Ridiculously attracted to him.

We’d already crossed the line multiple times, and I was frustrated that he wouldn’t just give in to it and let things happen naturally. Just like any other relationship. There were no guarantees. But it bothered me that he thought Hayes should have a say in this.

We were both adults.

Two consenting adults.

“Saylor, I’ve got a question for you.” Midge walked toward me, with Janelle and Peyton right behind her, and they were both already laughing.

“Should I be worried?” I asked.

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