Page 23 of Colors and Curves

“You didn’t talk about meeting again? Nothing?”

I shake my head. “She said I know where to find her.”

“Holy shit! She’s giving you the opening. Wait. Did you at least tell her I’m your sister? Or what your real name is?”

“No. I never had the time.”

She lets out a long sigh. “Why not?”

“We were distracted by something around us or Chance. Or each other.” I can’t help the silly grin on my face.

She pats my knee. “We always knew, one day, one of us would meet someone special, someone who’ll love us despite our baggage. If you think Skylar could be that person, then you need to tell her everything so she can understand why you are the way you are. And even if it ends up not being her, we’re going to have to talk about our past someday. We can’t pretend and hide behind the cameras and tattoos our whole lives. We’ve done it for so long… but we’ve wasted a lot of precious time. Life is really good right now, and we’ve worked hard for it, so we shouldn’t let those horrific memories of our father have control over us anymore.”

“Your therapist is doing a good job. I’ve never seen you so free before. I’m proud of you. Maybe I should be going with you.”

She crosses her arms. “Right. I tell you all the time to come, but no. You’re a tough guy, and tough guys don’t need therapy.”

“I have Chance. He’s my therapy dog.”

“Whatever.” She stands up. “Want Skylar’s number?”

“No. I’m going to handle this my own way.”

Chapter 13

Skylar

I’ve called an emergency meeting with Sophia and Jocelyn. With their crazy work schedules, we’ve agreed to meet early for breakfast this morning. I would’ve loved to sleep in, but I can’t stop thinking about that kiss yesterday. I can’t keep it to myself.

There they are. I wave to them as they walk through the door of the café. They each flash me a smile and approach the table. I stand up and give them hugs.

Once we sit down and get comfortable, I say, “I’m so glad you both could come. I really need some girl time. I just wish Lacey could be here too.”

“I don’t have class until eleven on Mondays,” Sophia says. “I can’t wait to hear what’s going on. How could you call us and not tell us what this is about?”

“It better be about that grouchy hot photographer,” Jocelyn teases. “If not, I’m grabbing a bagel to go, and I’m out of here.”

“Nah, you want to stay,” I tell her. “But let’s order first. I need a caffeine injection—I only had a couple hours of sleep.”

“Holy shit! Did you sleep with him?” Jocelyn’s excited voice travels through the small café. A woman at the table next to us chokes on her orange juice. Jocelyn claps a hand over her mouth. “I’m so sorry.”

“Well, that was embarrassing.” Sophia hides behind her menu and sinks in her chair.

“The quicker we order, the faster I’ll tell you.” They both slap their menus closed. Boy, are they eager. Jocelyn waves a waitress over and we place our orders.

Then they lean in over the table with anticipation in their eyes.

“You guys!” I protest. “Now you’re making me feel bad. Maybe it isn’t as exciting as you think. And no, I didn’t sleep with him.”

“So it is about him! Julius Ariti. The Greek god himself.” Jocelyn cheers.

“Yes. Now be quiet so I can tell you the story.” The waitress approaches with our drinks. I make space for my coffee. We take our first sips, then I wrap my hands around the hot cup. “So this is what happened yesterday.” I spend the next several minutes telling them the long version of the story this time, about Chance banging into me. After a lot of questions, I move on to yesterday.

“So you’re saying he was angry about Will being shirtless?” Jocelyn laughs. “He’s jealous. He might’ve thought you were going at it in the back. I’d probably come to the same conclusion if a topless woman showed up next to Christian.”

“A topless woman is totally different than a topless man. But whatever. It’s not the point. Once I introduced them, he relaxed and was in a better mood.”

The waitress brings our food. I look at my cheese and tomato egg white omelet and suddenly lose my appetite. Talking about Julius gives me butterflies and makes me nervous… in a good way.

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