Page 43 of One of Six

The phone is where I left it. I quickly shove it into my backpack and head back to Violet.

She raises an eyebrow. I grin in response. "We're crossing the river."

"Oh! Are we going for a walk on the dark side?"

I roll my eyes and laugh. "We are."

Violet hurries down the bank, takes off her shoes, and steps into the water. "What are you waiting for?"

"Nothing!" I follow my friend, laughing. I had no idea she would be so excited about this secret trip.

On the other side, we put on our shoes, and I lead Violet through the trees. My heart is pounding with excitement as we find two hot denim-clad guys on motorcycles.

"Hey, Mermaid Girl!"

I squeal and run up to Essex and throw myself into his arms. He catches me and laughs—rich and familiar.

"Hi, Essex Drake Redd." I press my mouth to his, only to have Ridge clear his throat and remind us that we're not alone.

"Well," Violet says, "there's single old me and single old you,” she points at Ridge, “we should join in." She slowly walks over to Ridge, who narrows his eyes.

"I don't know what the hell you've been drinking, but that isn't happening." He pats the seat behind him. "Climb on,Jailbait."

"Ugh!" Violet stops on his bike. "Does everyone know I'm only seventeen?"

"Yes," Essex and Ridge answer.

I climb on behind Essex. "Step on it."

I make sure Violet is sitting behind Ridge. The man winks and says to Violet, "Hang on,Jailbait.”

"I'm not always going to be seventeen!"

Chuckling, I hold on as Essex pulls out. I love sitting behind him and feeling the power of man and machine between my legs.

The ride is too short when he pulls into the driveway leading to WoodArt.

"Mom's got cake and tea waiting," Ridge tells us. "Come on,sweet cheeks, I'll take you to meet Mama Bear." Violet lets him take her hand and follows, not looking in my direction.

"I've lost my friend," I mutter.

"I hope she doesn't go after Ridge," Essex says, helping me off the bike.

He holds me close, his hands cupping my face. "How are you doing?"

"I slept like a log with you there."

He smiles softly, "I'm glad. I wish I could stay with you all night."

"Mmm." I press myself against him and enjoy how this man makes me feel. As if I'm valued and belong to him. "I should call that FBI guy before we go see your mom."

"Yeah. Inside, though." We walk into his studio, and I smile.

"I like being in here. This is your work, Essex. It makes me happy."

"Baby, you make me happy... Let's see the phone."

He laughs at the bundle I pull out and rolls his eyes.

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