Page 51 of Knot a Good Idea

He grins. “Nah. I’d rather you eat it. I can eat other things.”

I don’t miss the double meaning in his words.

Donovan groans in annoyance. “Put on some clothes, Hunter.”

I suppress a smile at their interaction. The brotherly dynamic reminds me a bit of Skylar and myself, except Donovan is more of a grump than me, and Hunter is slightly more unhinged than Skylar.

“Fine,” Hunter grumbles. “Will you be ready in five minutes for board games, babe?” he asks me.

Babe.

“Sure,” I say, as my stomach flips.

It shouldn’t be a big deal. It’s just a pet name.

And this is strictly business.

I’mall board gamed out.

Playing while also memorizing details about the people I will meet tonight cemented everything into my brain.

My nerves are slightly calmed.

I can do this.

I’m a capable person.

At least, I was before…everything.

But as I stare into the mirror, I’m starting to feel like the April Waters that I used to know.

The burgundy dress fits like a glove, accentuating my hips and giving me more of an hourglass figure. My breasts heave slightly over the neckline, cleavage on display, but still sophisticated.

Unfortunately, I can’t reach the zipper in the back.

One of the guys will have to do it.

I’m finishing up my makeup at the vanity—wishing that Devyn was here to give me a full, glamorous face—when there’s a knock at the bedroom door.

I jump, my startle response kicking into full gear. My heart beats rapidly in my chest, and painful adrenaline spears through my legs and arms for a second of pure chaos.

I grip the edge of the vanity tightly, exhaling a sharp breath.

I’m not back there. I’m in a house that I can easily leave at any time. I can unlock any door I need to.

“April?”

Liam’s tentative voice behind the door pulls me out of my spiral. Keeping a straight face, I open the bedroom door to greet him.

My breath catches.

Liam’s in a grey suit, tailored perfectly to his form. His hair is slicked back slightly, giving him a polished look. His green eyes pierce mine as he takes me in, his cheeks lightly flushing with color.

“You look…” he inhales sharply. “…beautiful.”

My face burns, and I’m sure I’m blushing just as hard as he is.

“You clean up well,” I tease, clearing my throat.

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