Page 49 of Now That We Don't Talk

So naturally it shouldn’t come as a surprise when Kyle, Addi, Mac, and Claire walk in while I’m shoveling chips, salsa, and queso into my mouth. The last place I want to be tonight is the same location as Mac and his date.

“Hey, you two,” Addi squeals. “I guess we were all in the mood for Casatonight.”

I nod, covering my mouth while trying to swallow the mouthful of chips—conveniently avoiding Mac’s amused expression.

“When are we not in the mood for Casa?” Katie exclaims. “Dallin’s at the Cubs game, so Vivi and I are having a girls night.”

As soon as I swallow, I stand up to hug Addi and Kyle because it’s the first time I’ve seen them since the engagement. “Congratulations on your exciting news. I’m so happy for you both. Now let me see the ring.”

Addi holds up her hand to reveal a diamond so large it makes her fingers look tiny.

“Isn’t it perfect?” Claire interjects. “And the wedding will be even more spectacular.”

I’m guessing event planner extraordinaire Claire will be very involved in the big day.

“It’s stunning,” I reply. “Good job, Kyle. I’m impressed.”

“Thanks, Vivi,” Addi says, squeezing my hand. “I know you all helped Kyle make it perfect. I appreciate it so much. We have the best people supporting us.”

I shoot a side glance at Mac, who’s still looking at me. “It was a team effort.”

“Exactly. We’d do anything for Kyle,” Mac says, patting his shoulder.

“Aw thanks, honey,” Kyle teases. He and Mac both start laughing. Admittedly it is nice seeing them together again, and they joke around with each other like no time has passed.

“Anyway, I’m starving,” Addi says. “You two enjoy, and next time I’m joining you.”

“Me too,” Claire exclaims, inviting herself.

We say goodbye, and they head to a table on the other side of the restaurant.

“I don’t understand why Addi is trying to set Claire up with Mac,” Katie says as soon as they leave. “Nothing will come from it.”

“What do you mean?”

Admittedly I’m thrilled to hear this.

She sips her margarita. “You know I adore Mac, but he’ll be gone before we know it. He’s not interested in anything long term. And Claire isn’t his type anyway.”

“How do you know what Mac’s type is?”

She shrugs. “Just a guess. And maybe Claire is fine with a summer fling.”

A summer fling?That’s probably what I would be too. Suddenly I feel stupid for even entertaining the idea.

“What’s wrong?” Katie asks, a concerned look on her face.

“Nothing,” I say. “Are you ready to order?”

“So tell me about Cash? He told Dallin he had a great time at lunch with you.”

I force a smile. “We did. And he asked me out again. We haven’t spoken in a few days. I guess work has been crazy for him.”

Katie eyes me curiously. “Are you interested? Tell me the truth.”

I clear my throat. “I am. Of course I’m still getting to know him…”

What she doesn’t know is I can’t stop thinking about a man who’s currently on a date with another woman across the restaurant.

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