Page 31 of Summer Nights

I couldn't believe I'd gotten her to come here. To break a few of her rules and spend time with me in my space. It was a win. I just wasn't sure how much further I'd get with her. She'd keep me at arms' length.

At what point would I want more?

The senior center was holding an anniversary party. There would be dancing and food, and our family was expected to be there. Phyllis said it was because we'd worked on their flower beds.

I hoped Ivy would be there too.

There had been a few news articles about Kingston Construction giving money to the library, with some negativity surrounding the fact that Brady was engaged to the children's librarian and head of the afterschool program.

Dad wasn't happy about the negative press, especially so soon after the local magazine had run an article and online poll about the Kingston brothers being the most eligible bachelors on the island.

It had caused a rift between Brady and Hazel too, and Brady was desperate to heal it. I wasn't sure what Brady had planned for the evening, but I hoped he worked it out with her.

When I walked inside, the party was set up in the social room where bingo was usually held. The tables had been cleared away and a dance floor set up near the front of the room.

There was a little stage with a lecturn and an overhead projector with pictures of the work and events that had taken place over the years.

Hazel stepped up to the microphone. "I wanted to welcome you to the senior center. We're so happy to have you here tonight to celebrate—" She broke off because Brady walked in, and Ivy rushed to the projector. She held up a finger for Hazel to wait.

"There must be some difficulty with the projector,” Hazel said.

Ivy stepped back, and the pictures disappeared. In its place was a video of Brady and a man I'd never seen before. He introduced himself as Colin Waters, a reporter from an independent Florida newspaper.

The room was quiet as the video played of the man interviewing Brady. Brady explained how he’d met Hazel, the engagement, and the fake relationship.

Brady’s words continued to play over the speakers, how he loved Hazel and wanted a future together. He didn't want to let the love of his life go.

Brady crossed the room, holding Hazel’s hand. I couldn’t hear whatever they were saying to each other. But his words spurred me to talk to Ivy.

When I saw Elena standing with Hudson at the back of the room, I approached them. "Do you know where Ivy went?”

Concern flashed over Elena's face. "She wasn't feeling well. She went home."

"Was it something she ate or a virus?" Should I be showing this level of concern? We weren't supposed to be public about our relationship. But then again, it was just a fling according to her.

"Probably something she ate. I'm sure she'll be fine."

I made a noncommittal noise. I wanted to check on her, but I couldn't be obvious about it. I scanned the room again, noting my brothers were in attendance. Then I made my way through the crowd and outside.

When I got in my car, my fingers curled around the wheel. I didn't like that Ivy was sick. I should stop and pick up soup and crackers, but I didn't want to take the time. I needed to be sure she was okay.

I knew where she lived but not the exact condo number. So I parked in the lot and searched for her address. It was easy enough to find. Then I headed up the stairs to her place on the third floor. There was no beach view here; it was so far away from the water. And it had a modern feel, so it wouldn't have the cottage feel I knew she'd appreciate.

I knocked on the door, but that's when I noticed the door was slightly ajar. I pushed it up, worried about what I'd find.

The living room and kitchen were empty. The TV was playing a home renovation show, but the sound was off.

I made my way down the hall. "Ivy? Are you okay?"

I hoped she wasn't here with another man. That made my blood run cold. We hadn't talked about being exclusive. I just assumed, and maybe that made me an idiot.

The only light came from the slightly ajar door to the master bath. "Ivy?"

"In here." Her voice was small.

I hurried to the doorway, not knowing what to expect. Ivy was seated on the floor, her back against the wall.

"Are you okay?"

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