Page 63 of These Pucking Boys: Part Two

“No, it doesn’t. You had a lot on your plate. Maybe this trip will be your chance to get to know her better.”

I laugh without humor. “I’ve probably blown all my chances after how I treated her the last time.”

“You don’t know that. I’m sure she’ll love you once you let her in.”

Warmth spreads through my chest. Even when I’m gloomy like today, June makes me feel better. It’s crazy how much I love her. I kiss her cheek. “You’re too good for me, Peaches.”

The balcony door slides open once more, and this time, it’s Lachy who sticks his head out. “Bloody hell. Why are you guys out here?”

“We’re enjoying some fresh air. Come join us.” June taps the space next to her.

“I love you, lass, but not a chance. I’m only wearing underwear, and I don’t want to freeze my balls off.”

“Is Jake up yet?” I ask.

“Haven’t heard a peep from his bedroom.” Lachy looks over his shoulder. “Wait. Spoke too soon. He’s up and sporting a glower. I bet he’s hungry.”

“We better go inside and get moving. I told Cory we’d meet him for breakfast before we head over to the hospital.”

“I can’t wait to meet him. Do you think he’ll like me?” June asks.

My brows furrow. “He’d have to be insane to not like you.”

For all my assurances that Cory will love June, I’m anxious as fuck as I wait for him at the hotel’s restaurant. What if he doesn’t understand our relationship with her? Not that I plan to tell him today, but I won’t keep him in the dark forever.

I figured we’d have more privacy if we didn’t go outside the premises. June looks like a veritable peach with her soft pink dress and her light ginger hair. She’s sitting across from me and next to Jake. It’s a pain in the ass that all I can do is stare at her in public, and he gets to kiss and hold her.

I know Lachy is as unhappy with the situation as I am. But I don’t see a way around it. We could ride out the storm if people found out we were sharing a girlfriend. June couldn’t. Her reputation would be destroyed. I love her too much to turn her world upside down like that.

My legs are bouncing up and down, and I can’t stop playing with the salt and pepper shakers. “Where the hell is Cory? He’s late.”

“Calm down, lad. You’re makingmenervous.” Lachy takes the shakers from me.

I spot Cory at the entrance, speaking with the hostess, and jump from my chair to get his attention. He’s as tall as me, but he looks much slimmer than the last time I saw him. He notices me and walks over. My heart is beating at breakneck speed now. I’m not nervous because of Cory’s presence, but what this meeting represents. It won’t be long now until I see Mom again.

“Hey, Ryan.” Cory smiles shyly.

I pull him into a hug. “It’s good to see you.”

“It’s good to see you too.”

I hold on to him a little longer than normal. I didn’t realize how much I missed the pain the ass until now.

“Ryan... I can’t breathe.”

“Oops. Sorry.” I pull back, and we turn to the table. Everyone is out of their seats.

“Jake... Lachy, it’s nice to see you again.” Cory smiles.

While my best friends take turns hugging my baby brother, I watch June. Her face is a little flushed. She looks nervous. I wish I could hold her hand and reassure her, but all I can do is wink at her.

After all the hugging is done, Cory’s attention turns to June. Before anyone can say a word, I blurt out, “Cory, I’d like you to meet June Summers. She’s my?—”

“My girlfriend,” Jake butts in.

I clench my jaw, annoyed. I wasn’t going to say she wasmygirlfriend.

“Wow. Really? You’re finally settling down?” Cory laughs, then turns to me. “You’re next, Ryan.”

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