Page 33 of Restricted List

We’re verging into territory that makes me want to do something foolish. It becomes even more tempting when I acknowledge that Cole might do something just as foolish in return.

I don’t think I can really keep this from Harlow any longer.

And since we’re grabbing dinner together at our favorite restaurant in Little Italy, now’s the perfect time to come clean.

“So, uh,” I stammer, already starting this conversation off strong. “Have you talked to Cole recently?”

Harlow smiles against her glass of Riesling. “Mhmm. Saw him for breakfast on Wednesday like usual.” Her tone turns a bit more mischievous. “Heard an interesting story then, too.”

I sigh. “I guess I should have figured he talked to you about that.”

“I got the briefest of overviews,” she replies, “and based on the way Cole was talking, that’s all I need or want to know.”

That pulls a laugh out of me. “Definitely for the best.” I take a sip of my Merlot, swirling the red liquid around my glass. “Things aren’t weird between us because of that, right?”

“Oh, God no!” Harlow exclaims. “You’re both adults—I’m not making this a big deal in the same way Cole didn’t make it a big deal when I started dating Knox.”

“I’m glad you guys don’t act like the siblings you see in romance novels. Best friend’s brother and sister are usually strictly off limits.”

“Best friend’s brother, huh?” She cocks her eyebrow at me suggestively.

“Shut up,” I chide before sighing. “You know I like him, right?”

“I figured it out months ago, babe. I was just never going to explicitly call you out on it before you told me. I wanted you to be sure it was something you’re comfortable sharing.”

“Thanks, Lo. I appreciate that.”

Harlow reaches across the table, laying her hand on top of mine. “That’s what best friends are for, Ror.”

“Love you, babe,” I smile. “So, you don’t think this crush is silly or anything?”

“Why would I? I think you’re both great people.”

“Because now you know how your best friend feels about your brother when I can’t act on it.”

“Is your dad the only thing stopping you?” she questions.

“No,” I admit, “he’s not. But he’s a large part of it. I’d never want Cole to risk his career. But I’m also sure as hell not his type.”

I can’t quite place the look on Harlow’s face right now. It’s like she wants to say something but doesn’t let herself speak the words. Like she knows something.

“I’m not sure Cole has a type,” she finally replies softly. “But who knows? If he does, maybe you’re exactly it.”

I eye her curiously. “What do you know, Lo?”

“Absolutely nothing,” she replies, a faux smile on her face as she throws her hands up in surrender. “I’m just saying.”

“Mhmm.”

“Anyway, what are you doing the rest of the night? Knox wants to play some cards tonight, and we need two more people for that.”

“Knox is the one initiating group plans? What the fuck did you do to that man, Harlow?”

Harlow’s laughter reverberates around the room. “I didn’t do a damn thing. That’s all him.” She smiles as she thinks of the formerly grumpy MLB pitcher she’s in love with. “So, you in?”

“Who else are you asking to come?” I ask.

Harlow doesn’t respond; she just smirks widely before sipping her wine.

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