Page 89 of Swept Up In You

“Last shift before you’re off. Thought we better come in to say bye.”

She nodded, not quite believing the words herself yet. Everything felt so normal and so different all at once.

She hooked a thumb towards the back door. “Dad’s already outside firing up the barbie.”

“Righto, I’ll go see if he needs a hand. And Sam-I-am?”

“Yeah, old man?” she joked back to Larry.

“Congratulations to you and Taylor. She’s a keeper. You’re in good hands.”

She caught Larry blushing at the statement, whether about their relationship in general or the accidental double entendre, she’d never know. And she wasn’t about to clarify. He excused himself, leaving Jase behind, who walked around the counter to give her a hug. As she slipped her arms around him, she could appreciate how good he smelled—mainly because it reminded her of Taylor. Fresh and woodsy. She was so happy to call him a friend.

Jase flashed one of his brilliant smiles down at her. There was no doubt he’d make all the boys swoon.

“Thanks for coming,” she said, squeezing his arm.

“Like I wouldn’t. You’re stuck with me now as your gay BFF.” He chuckled.

“You’re such a goof.”

He clutched at his chest in mock pain. “You wound me,” he said, then straightened back up, a coy smile tugging at his lips. “I have some news for you.”

“Yeah?”

“I scored a date. Arealdate this time.”

“No way!” Sam squealed, dancing on the spot. She patted his arm. “Aww, I’m so excited for you. And I want all the deets.”

“Ironically, it’s one of the baristas from the café where we caught up for our not-date.”

“Get out!” She shoved his arm playfully. She kneweveryoneat that café. Well, everyone knew everyone around here. She thought for a second. “Is it Andre?” she guessed.

His mouth dropped open. “Wha—how did you know?”

She shrugged. “It’s my regular spot.Andhe’s the nicest guy there. Good taste,” She winked. “So, where are you heading for your first date?”

“Good question. I stupidly said I’d surprise him, and I have no idea what to do.”

“Take him to mini-golf!” she said, with way too much excitement. “Sorry, I’m too keen apparently. That was the place I went to with Taylor, the place I was telling you about. While we weren’t technically dating then, there sure was a lot of flirting. The drinks were cheap too.”

“I could be down for cheap drinks and flirting.”

“Do it.”

She loved this banter and how close she’d got with Jase. As much as they joked, it really did feel like he was becoming her new best friend.

The door buzzed again, this time with Taylor waltzing through. “Where’s the lady of the hour? Oh—hey Jase.”

Thankfully, Taylor seemed genuinely okay with seeing Jase today, which was an improvement. She’d make them friends oneday, maybe with a little more buttering up,andonce Taylor knew about Jase’s true self, Sam was sure she’d change her tune.

Taylor came around the counter and gave Sam a quick kiss on the lips.

“You wore my shirt,” Sam commented, looking down at theFeeling Nautitop that started it all.

“I thought it was theme-appropriate for our send-off. Plus it’s the only remotely boat-themed clothing I own, so…” she shrugged. “Well, that and Jess practically begged me to wear it since it’s kind of how we met.”

“You two are so cute,” said Jase, looking between them as he leaned on the counter. “Fingers crossed I can fast forward so this can be me soon enough. Also, how come I haven’t heard how you both met yet?”

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