Page 13 of Curves and Waves

I braced myself for the explosion, the accusations of betrayal. But instead, Jake's face broke into a wide grin.

"And I just want to say, it's about damn time!"

I blinked, stunned. "What?"

Jake laughed, pulling me into a bear hug. "Come on, sis. You've been pining after Caleb for years. And he's been just as bad, even if he thinks he's been subtle about it. I was wondering how long it would take you two to finally get your acts together."

Relief and disbelief washed over me in equal measure. "You're okay with this?"

He released me, his expression softening. "Zo, all I've ever wanted is for you to be happy. And I've never seen you light up around anyone the way you do with Caleb. Plus, he's my best friend. I know he's a good guy who'll treat you right."

Tears pricked at my eyes. "We were so worried about how you'd react."

He ruffled my hair affectionately. "Give me some credit, squirt. I'm not completely clueless." His grin turned mischievous. "Though I do have to ask - exactly how long has this been going on?"

I felt a blush creeping up my neck. "Uh, well officially? Since last night."

Jake's eyebrows shot up. "Last night? Wait, is that why Caleb took so long to get you to come to dinner?"

I nodded, biting my lip.

He let out a low whistle. "Damn, good work, sis. I'm impressed."

I swatted at him, laughing despite my embarrassment. "Shut up."

Jake held up his hands in surrender, still grinning. "Hey, no judgment here. Just maybe keep the PDA to a minimum around me, yeah? There are some things a brother doesn't need to see."

I rolled my eyes. "Says the guy who once made out with my roommate."

"That was different!" he protested. "I was young and stupid."

"It was last year, Jake."

He waved a hand dismissively. "Details, details. Anyway, I'll let you finish getting ready for dinner.” He held up a hand. “Just remember - I'm happy for you, but if Caleb hurts you, best friend or not, I'll throw him overboard."

I hugged him tightly. "Thanks, Jake. You're the best brother a girl could ask for."

As he left, I felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. One major hurdle down, one to go.

Dinner was a surprisingly relaxed affair. With Jake in on the secret, the tension that had been simmering all day was now gone, and Caleb felt comfortable enough to hold my hand as we all chatted about the day. As we finished our desserts, Jake stretched exaggeratedly. "Well, kids, it's been fun, but I think I'm going hit the casino again. Try not to do anything I wouldn't do."

Caleb snorted. "That doesn't leave much off the table, buddy."

Jake winked. As he sauntered off, Caleb turned to me, his expression softening. "So lower deck again?"

I nodded, suddenly nervous again. "Lead the way."

We made our way to a quiet spot near the railing, the sound of the waves a soothing backdrop. The sun was setting, painting the sky in brilliant shades of orange and pink. It was breathtakingly romantic, and for a moment, I let myself believe in the magic of it all.

Caleb leaned against the railing, his eyes on the horizon. "So," he said softly. "I guess we have some things to figure out."

I nodded, moving to stand beside him. "Yeah, I guess we do."

He turned to face me, his expression serious. "Zo, I need you to know something. This. Us. It's not just a vacation fling for me. I meant what I said before. I've had feelings for you for a long time."

He reached out, tucking a strand of hair behind my ear. "I've always seen you, Zo. I guess I was scared of messing things up with Jake.”

I leaned into his touch, my eyes fluttering closed. "So what now?"

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