Page 592 of Dark Love

The way she says ‘fun’ puts my nerves on edge.

“We got a new neighbor. He moved in this week.”

The last time a house sold here was almost a decade ago. People move in here, and they don’t leave until they retire. “That’s nice.”

“Your father invited him to golf yesterday.”

Dad andgolf… “Please don’t tell me Dad lost.”

“Of course, your father didn’t lose.”

Good. If he lost, I’d head home now and try again next week. Dad’s a good loser when it comes to everything, but golf.

“He said Maverick has potential, but he’s rough around the edges. They have plans to play again at the club next week.”

“It’s nice Dad got another golf buddy.”

“And a handsome one at that.”

“MOM.”

“What, I’m neither blind nor dead. Maverick doesn’t hold a candle to your father.”

I hope I’m like that when I’m her age… or any age. Though Vex wouldn’t like me even appreciating another man’s looks.

“Why don’t you go settle in? Dinner is in forty minutes or so. We’ll be having company.”

Company? “Who’s coming over?”

“Just your brother, Montgomery... oh, and Maverick.”

I freeze. It’s not odd for Montgomery to be invited over. He’s my brother’s best friend and has practically lived here since they were both teenagers. But Mom would never — “How old is the new neighbor?”

“He’s about your age. Maybe a few years older.”

She says it offhand, but my mother is too determined to get me married to not have planned this. “Mom.”

“What? Don’t look at me like that. He’s rich, single, handsome, and your dad likes him. It can’t hurt to meet him.”

Except I came here to tell you I’m in love. “Mom.”

“Just meet him. It’s not like I’m asking you to go on a date. He’ll probably spend most of the night talking to your dad about golf.”

Why don’t I believe her? “I came here to spend time with you.”

“And you will. We have the entire weekend. Oh, you’re going to have to stay in your old bedroom. We’re redecorating the guest house.”

What? “You are?” We redecorated it together just a couple of years ago.

“It was time for a change.” A haunted look passes over her face. “It’s going to be a gym for your father and me. A pretty yellow room that will wipe away all the bad memories.”

“They weren’t all bad memories. I learned that no matter what happens, you and Dad will be there for me.”

Mom brushes a tear away. “Go settle in. And put on something pretty—” Mom stops. Her eyebrows crinkle. “Something is different about you.” She examines me for a long minute.

Can she tell I’ve fallen in love? I’m certainly happier than I was weeks ago.

“You’re wearing new clothes.” A tear rolls down her cheek. “You look so beautiful!”

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