Page 45 of Colors and Curves

“Oh, really?” She jabs me in the ribs playfully, then glances at Daisy and Cameron. “Since when is he such a smartass?”

“Since you came around. But I’d rather he be a funny smartass than his old broody self,” Daisy responds.

Cameron nods in agreement. “Better get going before the smartass backs out.”

Skylar laces her fingers through mine, then kisses the top of my hand. “You’ll do fine. If it gets to be too much, we’ll come back here and watch a movie in our pjs, since I’m staying over tonight.” She pulls me toward the door.

“I like the staying over part. But I’ll behave.”

Daisy huffs with her cake in her hands and follows behind us.

“Cameron, you have our numbers. Have fun,” I call out.

“Don’t rush back,” he jokes. “I make money on an hourly basis.” Daisy and Skylar laugh as we walk out the door.

Okay. I’ve survived the first couple of hours and have to admit I’m having a good time. The weather is perfect, well for me anyway since it’s overcast right now. Just like Skylar promised, her family has welcomed me and Daisy with open arms. Her mom and stepdad talked my ear off about art and my photography. I can see where Skylar’s enthusiasm and personality come from. She has her mom’s dark features and beauty too.

When Skylar said we were going to a barbecue, this isn’t what I envisioned. This is more like a garden party you’d see in a magazine. There are several tables set up with fabric tablecloths with large floral arrangements adorning each one. Lanterns hang from the trees in the garden. There are even palm trees swaying in large planters scattered throughout the backyard. To the side is a smoker and a huge, sparkling gas grill. Kids have gravitated to a small pool area by the trees. And to top it off, there’s a tent set up to cover the buffet. I’m surprised there’s no DJ or band playing.

Will and Lacey are here, so I’ve been getting to know them better. I was pretty rude the first time I met them. Will’s twin brother, Josh, is here too. When he saw Skylar, he picked her up off the ground and spun her around. They’re always laughing and joking about something. I won’t lie—I’m jealous. She’s told me about him before and says he’s a player. He tried to make the moves on her in St. Thomas, but she looks at him like a brother. I guess that should make me feel better. It does make me wonder, though, if she’d be better off with someone who’s more outgoing.

Speak of the devil. “Having a good time?” Josh asks as he approaches me.

“Sure. They throw one hell of a barbecue.”

“Yeah. So you’re the lucky guy who took Sky off the market. Warning, don’t get on her bad side. She doesn’t take shit from anyone. She holds her ground and doesn’t fall for any bullshit. Tough as nails but fun as hell.” He’s exactly right. “Have you ever been to the Hamptons?”

“No. I’ve never had the chance. I’d love to one day, though.”

“You should visit with Sky before the summer’s over. Bring Daisy along too. We can take you out on one of our boats.”

Alert.I saw him talking to Daisy. She can take care of herself, but I can’t help being protective. Especially if he’s a player.

“Thanks for the invite. I’ll talk to Sky about it. She has a tougher schedule than I do.”

“Sky showed me your photo that Jocelyn and Christian bought from the gallery. You have amazing talent. You’re perfect for Sky with her fascination with the arts. She’s intimidating.” We laugh at the same time.

“Tell me about it. She can describe my photos better than I can. She’s amazing.”

And she’s mine.

Skylar approaches us carefully. “What are you gentlemen talking about?”

“You,” we say in perfect unison. She turns on her heel and tries to walk away. I wrap my arm around her waist.

“You’re not going anywhere. It’s all good stuff. Josh says I’m a lucky man to have you.”

She wraps her arms around me. “And what do you think of that?”

“I’d have to agree.” I peck her lips. Suddenly there’s a crowd.

“Excuse me. No public displays of affection, please,” Daisy jokes. Jocelyn, Sophia, and Lacey come up from behind us.

“Sorry. Couldn’t help it.”

“Are you having fun, Julius?” Jocelyn asks. “I hope our family hasn’t scared you. They scared me a little when I first met them.” She leans in and whispers, “But don’t tell them that.”

“Same here,” Sophia agrees quietly.

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