Page 33 of Passions & Peonies

“We can, but we have to pick up the ingredients at the store first,” Will says.

“I’m game.” I’m curious where he lives. Let’s see if his house is as neat as his workspace. Maybe I’ll find some more clues about the kind of guy he is. Maybe we can find some time to be alone. The days are going too fast.

“I’ll get the bill,” Josh offers, turning in his seat in search of the waitress.

Not too much later, we’re sitting in front of the fire on their patio. Josh and Will are telling us stories about the stunts they pulled in high school, switching roles and other pranks. Sky and I are laughing so hard, we’re crying. Their poor parents!

I’ve seen things like this in movies, but how can it happen in real life? I’ve only spent a couple of days with them, and I can’t imagine not being able to tell them apart. Well, I guess it could work if they dress the same and never speak. It did happen the first time I saw Josh.

“How about one more pitcher of Bushwackers for the night?” Josh suggests and stands up.

Sky hops up too. “I’ll come with you to give the lovebirds some time alone. You guys want any?” We both say no.

I move over and rest my head on Will’s shoulder. He pulls me closer and I drape my legs over his. A couple of lanterns like the ones from the other night flicker on the table in front of us. The fire pit crackles and pops. It’s so cozy and romantic. Why can’t I stay here forever?

The bungalow is simple and adorable. It has two large bedrooms, two bathrooms, and a large open living room/kitchen area. The whole place is decorated in basic blues and grays like our hotel room. Maybe it was originally an apartment or suite from the hotel. It would make sense, since it’s on the property.

It’s perfect for two guys who live here part time. There aren’t many personal touches like paintings or photographs on the walls. No bookshelves filled with books or even curtains on the windows. Just window blinds. The kitchen has a coffee pot, blender, and a microwave on the counter. There’s a center island with stools but no kitchen table. It’s pretty clean and orderly for two bachelors. Definitely needs a girl’s touch.

The patio area is secluded and private with a line of orange flowering bushes. It has an awesome view of the beach—well, that’s what the guys say, anyway. Maybe I’ll get the chance to see it in the daytime before I leave.

The buzz of the blender blasts from the kitchen along with some music. Sky’s giggling about something again. I didn’t know she was such a giggler… but I’ve never seen her drink so much, either.

“I’m glad you stopped by the marina tonight,” Will says.

I lift my head off his shoulder and gaze at him.

“You need to give me your phone number. I could’ve gone to the hotel and left you a message, but I don’t remember your last name.” He grimaces. “I’m sorry. You’d think I’d remember, but you only said it once. I know it starts with a D.”

“It’s Devlin. Have you ever heard of a jewelry store called Devlin’s Designs? It’s in New York.”

“No. Sorry. I’m not much of a jewelry person.”

“It doesn’t matter. It’s my brother’s jewelry store.” I shrug. “You gave me your number, but I didn’t want to bother you.”

“That’s right. You were supposed to send me that picture. Why didn’t you? You need to send it before you leave so I have your phone number finally.”

“Lots of reasons; questioning everything about us. When we’re together like this, I have no doubts how we feel about each other. But when we’re apart, I don’t know if I should be the independent woman who waits for the guy to come to her or the aggressive one who goes after the guy. I guess I’m feeling aggressive tonight.” I growl a little and kiss his cheek.

“I like aggressive. Should I tell you how I feel about you?” He leans over and showers my neck with kisses. “I love the way you smell… like flowers in the spring.”

“Oh, you do, huh?” I tease. “I told you, I love peonies. That’s the scent of my perfume.”

“I noticed how you smelled on the plane. I was hooked. I’ll never look at peonies the same again. Or an empty plane seat, or a Red Sox baseball cap, or a red bathing suit… get my point?”

“Mmhmm.”

“I love how happy you always are,” he murmurs. “It’s intoxicating. I can’t be in a bad mood when you’re around. Our flight was proof. You cheered me right up.

“And… I love that you hate it when I wear sunglasses. You look at me like you can see right through me.” He cups my cheek and his eyes connect with mine. “Maybe you can even read my mind.”

“I can’t help it. Your eyes are so beautiful. I need to see all of you. It’s like a wall between us when you’re wearing them. I also like to watch the gold specks in your eyes sparkle.”

He tips his head and presses his lips against mine.Oooph.My stomach suddenly swirls, then clenches—and it’s not because of his yummy kisses. Maybe it’s the way I’m sitting after eating so much or from laughing too hard. I change my position on the couch.

Where were we?I grip his shirt and pull him toward me.Cramp.I let go and lean back.Clench. Ugh.

Will’s head flinches back slightly. “What’s the matter?”

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