Page 25 of Unwrapping Romance

Chapter Ten

Jack

The chilly air smacked my face as I walked through Bryant Park. People gathered from all over to visit and shop in the winter village, which featured hundreds of shops selling goods made by local artisans. This was holiday hell if I’d ever seen it.

“It’s about time.” Daniel smiled, walking up and hooking his arm around me.

“Traffic was a bitch, and the cab driver was an idiot.”

“Where’s Eric?” he asked.

“He has the weekend off. You know I hate Bryant Park this time of year. Why are we here?”

“You hate the entire city this time of year, my friend. Anyway, let’s go get some tacos and a beer.”

After standing in a ridiculous line to get tacos, we sat at a small table.

“I wanted to show you this.” Daniel reached into his pocket and pulled out a small velvet box. Flipping open the lid, a large diamond ring stared me in the face. “I’m going to propose to Chrissy on Christmas Eve. What do you think?”

“If that’s what you really want.” I bit into my taco.

“It is. You know how much I love her. We’ve been together for almost two years, and it’s time I put a ring on her finger.”

“Are you just doing it because of social pressure?” I asked.

“Come on, Jack. You know I love her. You could at least be happy for me.”

“I am, Daniel. If that’s what you really want. Chrissy is a great woman, and the two of you are good together. If you want to fall down the rabbit hole of marriage, be my guest.”

“You’re an asshole, Atlas. Why are we even friends?”

“Because you’re an asshole too. Just not as big of one as I am.” I smirked.

“Thanksgiving is next week. Come over and have turkey with us. We’re having about ten people.”

“You ask every year, and the answer is still the same: no.”

“I still have a week to convince you. How was the play with Wendy Friday night?”

“Eventful. Sierra was there with some guy. I don’t know who he was or how she met him. While we were getting a drink during the intermission, he overheard Sierra saying something about us sleeping together. He mentioned it in front of Wendy, she was pissed off, and the two of them left.”

“Who left? Sierra and her date?”

“No. Wendy and Sierra’s date. So, we finished watching the play, and I drove her home.”

“You fucked her again, didn’t you?”

“Perhaps.” I tipped the beer to my lips. “She owed me for ruining my night with Wendy.”

“What are you doing, Jack?” He shook his head. “Something doesn’t feel right here.”

“What do you mean?”

“I don’t know. I can’t put my finger on it. But something tells me you’re interested in Sierra for more than just sex.”

“You’re crazy.” I chuckled. “You know me better than that. Anyway, it’s a beautiful ring, and Chrissy will be very happy. Whatever you do, don’t get married next year around the holidays. I can’t stand them enough without attending a wedding amid it all.”

“I’ll make sure to let Chrissy know.” A smirk crossed his lips.

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