Page 62 of Finish Line

I meet each of their gazes. “This thing with Roger made me realize I don’t want anyone else. Shelby’s it for me, and you feel the same.”

Dom gives a quick nod.

“She’s my queen,” Mav says.

“I agree. What do you have planned?” Cam runs his hand over his chin.

“We each could give her a ring that stacks up into one. Something like this.” I pull out my phone and show them a picture of a ring. “This isn’t going to be an engagement ring, but more of a commitment ring.”

I thought a lot about this ring while she was with Cam and found a set that fits us perfectly. I hope they agree because I’ve already bought it.

They pass my phone around to look at the picture.

“Ooooh, I like it.” Mav beams.

“Buy them.” Dom passes my phone back. “And you should be the first to give it to her.”

I laugh with relief. “Glad you approve, because I have them upstairs.”

After dinner, the girls put away the dishes and scamper off into Shelby’s room. At the same time, we set up poker on a table outside on the deck.

“I was worried about how full the beach was today, but Shelby handled it.” I shuffle the cards.

“I was nervous when those guys asked to play volleyball with us.” Nick rolls a poker chip between his fingers. “The beach should be fuller tomorrow. Most of the spring breakers have come in during the day today.”

In the distance, a party rages on. It’s going to get worse before it’s over. Shelby’s managing better than we all expected, and the dates should help distract her.

The bad cards aren’t enough to bring down my mood. Shelby comes out of the bedroom and grabs a Dr. Pepper.

“Who’s winning?” she asks.

“Sam, but I think he’s cheating,” I say.

“I’m not!” Sam exclaims. “You’re just a sore loser.”

“Come here, Shelby, and give me some luck,” Mav says.

She puts her can down on the counter and comes over, standing behind Mav and leaning down to review his cards. “Eww, no luck can help you.”

“Thanks a lot, love,” he says.

“You’re welcome.” She kisses his cheek and turns to leave.

I grab her hand, and she flinches.

Regret shoots through me, and I instantly release her. “Sorry, baby.”

“It’s all right.” She rests her hand on my shoulder. “What do you need?”

“We were talking, and while we’re here, we would like to take you out on dates.” I chew the inside of my cheek.

The smile she gives us is genuine. “Sure. When will you want to do this?”

“We don’t have any plans tomorrow. If that’s all right with you?” I ask.

“I’m excited,” she says.

“Me, too.” I kiss her on the cheek and return to our poker game, where I lose some more.

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