Page 78 of Tangled Desires

“Thank you for cooking,” she says, placing a kiss on my cheek. A grin spreads to her face. “Pizza?” It’s like she can read my mind.

“Yes. Abso-fucking-lutely.” I grab my phone, ready to order.

26

“Okay, weirdest food combo—go!” Amelia leans forward with a grin.

Xavier raises an eyebrow. “Vegemite and avocado toast. Isla and I love it. Don’t knock it ‘til you’ve tried it.”

Michael snorts. “Mate, that sounds gross. Peanut butter and bacon, that’s where it’s at.”

I’m sprawled on the couch at Isla and Xavier’s, pretending to watch footy highlights but really just zoning out. Olivia’s got Callie bouncing on her lap, her little squeals filling the room. The others are deep in conversation, voices rising and falling around me.

Imogen smirks. “Hot chips dipped in a chocolate milkshake? Now that’s a solid combo.” Her voice hooks me back into the room, and I watch her, a smile spreading across my face.

Bradley’s face twists. “Why would youdothat?”

“Pregnancy cravings, Brad.” Imogen says it like it’s the most obvious thing in the world. “Plus, Harrison tried it, too, and he loved it,” she adds, nodding in my direction,

“It’s true, mate.” I grin. “I’ve tried all kinds of weird stuff lately—nothing phases me anymore.” Everyone’s cracking up, the kind of loud, easy laughter that fills the whole room. For a second, I let it pull me back in. Feels good, being here with all of them. Nice, even. Especially after the week I’ve had.

I haven’t seen Mum since that dinner. She’s dodging me—I’m sure of it. And, honestly? Fine by me. Not like that’s been the thing messing with my head. Nah, that award goes to the missed calls. Him. Twice this week. Just seeing his name pop up wrecks me for days. With Imogen around, I’ve been doing everything I can to keep it together. I’d answered the first call. Dumb fucking move. Turns out, he got my number by sweet-talking some bloke at the pub—a customer from the shop, of all people. First thing I did after? Changed my number. There is no way I’m dealing with that again.

“Oi, Harrison. You good for Monday?” Xavier snaps me out of it.

“What?” I blink at him, completely lost.

Xavier’s staring at me, arms crossed. “I texted you. About bringing in my ute. Needs a service. Don’t you check your phone?”

“Uh, yeah, about that…” I scratch the back of my neck, avoiding their eyes. “Changed my number. Sorry.”

Michael and Xavier blink at me, both frowning. “What? When?”

“The other day. Too many scam calls.” The lie slides out easily as I pull out my phone. “I’ll text you my new one.” A few taps, and it’s done. Feels like everyone’s eyes are glued to me, so I barrel forward. “Good for Monday, by the way.”

Xavier nods, but tosses a look at Michael. “Speaking of next week, what’s happening?”

“What’s next week?” Amelia asks.

“Michael’s birthday,” Bradley says.

Olivia lights up. “Oh, amazing! Let’s celebrate!”

“No fucking way,” Michael grunts. “Can’t be bothered going out.”

Imogen arches a brow, stepping in before anyone else can. “Why don’t we have a BBQ? Just us.” She glances at me. “Harrison’s place has a decent patio.”

“Yeah, works for me,” I say, shrugging. The way she says it—it’s her place, too, now. Not just mine.

“Alright, whatever. I’m down.” Michael shrugs.

Xavier jumps in. “Cool, Brad and I’ll sort the meat.”

“I’ll do roast veggies,” Isla adds.

“Oooh, I’ll bring dessert!” Amelia grins.

Michael groans, shaking his head. “Guys, just order food. No need for all this.”

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