Page 78 of Playing the Game
“I had them special ordered for tonight.” Jonah casually throws it out there.
I turn in his direction. “You didn’t tell me you did that.”
“Why would I?” He shoves a scallop in his mouth.
I want to say because you didn’t even want to come, but I keep that to myself.
“Thank you for doing that. It makes me a little bubbly inside.” She twists from side to side like an innocent child as she eyes my brother up and down.
Not this again.
She’s already ripped his heart out once. I don’t want to see her do it again. And with her moving, that’s what would happen.
Jonah swallows his food. “I knew they were your favorite and wanted you to enjoy tonight.”
She softens as she smiles at him with warmth. “Thank you. That was thoughtful of you.”
He nods. “You mean a lot to me. It’s the least I could do.”
Her cheeks redden. “Jonah Efron, are you flirting with me?”
“It’s possible.” His eyes twitch mischievously.”
I’m about to leave these two alone, but the energy around us shifts. Instead of a light party atmosphere, it grows weighted.
Mel straightens as her eyes dart from me to someone behind me. The subtle vanilla and lavender perfume gives Dorothy away.
I pull in a gust of air and turn to face her, bracing myself for what I’ll see. She’s guiding Jamison over to us as he holds his right arm close and tight to his chest. His gait is stiff like he’s in a lot of pain.
My rib cage squeezes as guilt kicks me in the gut. He’s like he is because of my mother.
“Hey there, you guys.” Melanie steps around Jonah and shifts closer to them.
“Happy going-away party!” Dorothy reaches over and gives her a hug. I try to make eye contact, but she avoids me.
They move away from their embrace.
Melanie gives Jamison a once-over. “Hey, big guy. I’d give you a hug, but I’m scared I’ll hurt you.”
“I’m fine.” He takes a step forward like he’s reaching for her but stops mid-movement, bringing in a ragged breath.
“Yeah, I’m going to pass. You’re in too much pain.” Mel moves back and points to the other side of the room. “I have a table for you over by the courtyard. Let me show you where it is.”
Jamison holds himself stiffly. “Give me a minute. I need to catch my breath.”
“Whatever you need.” Dorothy scans over him, concern dripping from her every pore. “Do you want something to drink?”
“No. I shouldn’t mix the painkillers with alcohol.” He intertwines his fingers with hers, and her cheeks get painted in crimson.
The blood drains from my limbs. My heart shatters like I was the one who got shot. Now I need a painkiller.
I didn’t know seeing them together would hurt this much. I want to look away, but I can’t. It’s surreal seeing them together. I never thought it would happen.
“Hunter.” He dips his chin to me and then faces Jonah. “Jonah, good to see you.”
“You too. It’s great news you’re out of the hospital. We were really worried about you.” Jonah glances at me.
“Yeah. Your recovery is a relief.” I run my hand over my suddenly stiff neck.
