Page 32 of Hard to Take

“I’m going home to collect.”

9

BROOKE

“You didn’t have to come early!” Nova throws out her arms to me as the door swings wide when I arrive.

“I didn’t come to help. I came to drink your wine.”

And possibly to avoid being home and running into my tall, gorgeous roommate who’s supposed to get back any minute from his road trip.

Nova’s sister, Mari, is queen of parties. Tonight is supposed to be a low-key celebration of Clay and Nova’s new house.

The huge estate house is already decorated for the upcoming holiday. It’s six bedrooms with even more bathrooms. Nova grew up on the road, so she never takes for granted having a place to put down roots and host friends and family.

“You look incredible,” she says as she shows me some of the improvements they’ve made in their kitchen.

“Thanks.” I glance down at my short black dress and suede booties. “I got a few pieces to try from this brand Vivaro.”

“Oooh. They made the dress?”

“They made what’s underneath.”

I turn and unzip the back so she can see the aqua bra underneath from the box of products arrived this morning.

I remember how it looked when I put it on earlier and inspected the results in the mirror. I tamed my curls to add to the sleek look. “I need to take it for a full test drive before I commit.”

“It’s hot. What else did they send?”

“Two sets of workout bras and tights. I wasn’t going to wear cropped leggings to your party, so here we are.”

“If you do agree to work with them, you’ll need a photographer. I’m officially offering my services.”

“You’re a lifesaver! And you do have the best eye.”

“Pink?” a low voice calls from the door.

“In here!” Nova replies.

Clay appears from the hallway as I zip my dress back up. To his credit he doesn’t look too disappointed when he clocks that I’m here. “Thought company wasn’t coming for another hour.”

“Come on. I’m not company.” I wave a hand.

“Good. Then I can ask you to leave and come back when I’m done with my wife.”

Nova laughs. “That can wait.”

“Not what you said on the phone last night.” He crosses to his wife and brushes a kiss across her lips.

Damn. They’re so freaking cute it hurts to watch them.

When Clay pulls back, my friend is beaming. “How was the flight?”

“Rookie’s been watching these animal tricks reels. We made him plug in his headphones, but now all we can hear is him laughing.” Clay changes gears smoothly. “Miles had a good game.”

I look between him and Nova. “Why are you telling me?”

“He’s playing better than I’ve seen him play. Doesn’t happen without making a change.” He reaches for a water and grabs his bag to take upstairs.

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