Page 82 of Throttle

Tequila

Sure. Saying no to spending time with Throttle took every fiber of my being, but I did it, and I’m proud of myself. Just because it was Jules's wedding/baby shower, I still would have turned down the invitation.

Definitely would have said no.

Ugh.

I brush my teeth, shower, curl my hair, and change into a long fall dress that slightly hugs my body.

As I walk downstairs, Throttle’s on the phone. Probably talking to the guys. Lost in conversation, his gaze meets mine, and he freezes, examining every inch of me from waist to cleavage. His stare makes me want to ignite. When he looks at me, I feel like the most gorgeous woman on Earth. One look from him is enough to be powerful and debilitating.

His Adam's apple moves, suggesting that the dress is making him sweat. Good. It’s clear he’s attracted to me, but I want him to have it all, not just the physical aspect.

I say goodbye with a single wave and when I reach the pavilion for the party, I'm in awe. It’s breathtaking. Trees across the lake have completely transformed for fall. Tables and chairs overlook the water, and the small gazebo is adorned with elegant balloons and sunflowers, giving it the ambiance of a small-town romance.

Angel waves as she continues taping up what’s left of the banner that reads: Congratulations, Lil Mama.

I imagine how Jules's wedding will appear when spring arrives. It makes my stomach fluttery. Many tears are going to be shed.

“Here.” Angel tosses me a balloon. “Start blowing.” She smirks.

I roll my eyes. “Venom kiss you with that mouth?”

“Well, duh. He wouldn’t want it any other way.”

I laugh, shake my head, and give Maggie a warm hug. “It looks incredible. Jules is going to be so excited.”

As I bring in more chrysanthemums and observe the small hanging baskets, I realize this is only a glimpse of what lies ahead for next year.

“Ugh. I just might cry and it’s not even the wedding yet.” Maggie fans at her eyes.

“I think we all will sob,” Angel chimes in.

There's nothing more romantic than when your good friend marries her childhood sweetheart.

I contribute by placing the centerpieces, which feature yellow flowers, on every table.

“So, have you murdered him yet?” Angel nudges me with her elbow, handing me another centerpiece.

“Who?”

“Mr., my intention is to keep you safe from my Yada Yada bullshit. Believe me, I've experienced it. It’s easier when they admit defeat and confess their undying love.”

Maggie smiles while tying a bow to a chair. “They’re all the same. These men. Thinking they know what’s best for us.”

Both speak from their own experiences, but mine is different. At least I think it is.

“I’m still angry at him for what he did. He had no right to save me. I didn’t need saving.”

Maggie and Angel exchange glances.

Angel sets down a flower jar. “Why didn’t you ever tell me where you were living? It was obvious something was up but didn’t want to pry. I should have pried.”

“It’s not that big of a deal. I wasn’t homeless and was perfectly fine.” Partially true.

“I get it.” Angel lays a hand on my shoulder. “But I won’t lie and say I’m not happy you’re out of there. Shacking up with Mr. Sunshine turned grump is a bonus.”

“Grump?” I ask.

---