Page 79 of Playing For Keeps
“They told me they’re getting married. That makes me believe they’re sharing intimate times and conversations, bringing them together like true partners.”
Aiden’s head falls forward, and his shoulders sag. “I saw how protective he is over her earlier. I didn’t put it together that he was behaving that way because she’s going to be his wife. They didn’t mention it to me.”
“It just happened before they left. Try not to feel bad that she didn’t tell you.”
“I can’t believe she didn’t tell me.” Aiden’s devastated gaze comes to me. “And you’re just going to let her go without a fight?”
My chest tightens. “It’s time I focus on getting over her. I’ve got a son I need to put all my energy toward, and that’s my priority now.”
“Understood.”
A thought takes root in my mind. “Since I’m footing the bill for your dilemma with your career, I have an idea. It's a win/win opportunity.”
He rests back, eyeing me suspiciously. “This sounds intriguing, so let me hear it.”
CHAPTER 19
JAMISON
We board the jet,thankful we’re on our way home. The attendant gives us a quick rundown of everything we need to know about the flight and takes our drink order.
Melanie sits across from Dori and me. “This is so cool, Jami. It was good thinking, booking us on a private jet.”
“It was nice of you.” Dori rests her head on my shoulder.
Melanie runs her hands over the leather seat. “Oh, I know. You should buy one so we can go on vacation whenever we want.”
I laugh. “Who’s saying you get to travel with us?”
She glares at me. “Dori, what do you think?”
She lifts a shoulder to her ear. “It seems excessive. I don’t think Jami needs to spend money on something we may use only a few times a year.”
“Whatevs. He should still get one for us. But if you think this is excessive, just wait until you see?—”
“Melanie…” My tone is full of warning. “You’re already getting me to buy a condo for you. I’m not buying a jet.”
Dori peeks up at me. “What’s this about a condo?”
My stomach swirls because I didn’t discuss this with her. “Mel was at our place and asked to move in. Since I want tostart our new life with a little privacy, I told her you two could go find a place for her. I’ll buy it, and she can rent it from us.”
Dori sits straight and stares at Mel. “Why does Jami have to buy one? Why can’t you rent on your own?”
Fuck.
I didn’t think Dori would be upset, but her reaction tells me otherwise.
Mel crosses her arms over her chest as her expression grows wary. “I’ve been looking for a place, but Miami is more expensive than I thought it would be. I can’t find anything in my budget that’s near work. Jami thought it could be a great investment. And since you know me, you guys would rent it to me.”
I jump in to alleviate Dori’s concern. “She would need a roommate to be able to afford something close to her office. I didn’t think you would mind. Actually, I thought you would love the idea of helping her out so she could live alone for once.”
Dori twists to me. “Oh, you’re misunderstanding. I love the idea, and knowing why you offered it makes it that much sweeter. I just asked because I figured she already had a place.”
Mel relaxes against her seat. “I didn’t tell you I was having troubles because you were busy with your move.”
Dori reaches for Mel’s arm. “Please don’t keep things from me. I told you before you moved I want our friendship to be equal. You need to lean on me with your struggles. You’ve always been there for me, and it’s my turn to be there for you.”
Mel digs into her bag and pulls out a magazine. “In that case, help me decide on decor. It’s the first time I get to do everything to my liking, and I’m not sure what I’ll need.”
