Page 29 of Thanks for the Friendship
“He does,” Gabby says. “He told me we could take our time making plans. He just wanted to publicly show me he was committed to a future with me. And he wanted to propose at the place we met.”
I giggle. “Who would’ve guessed the hammocks in the backyard would be so special?”
“They are … this house will always mean so much to me.”
Ugh. Hearing her say that feels like a stab through my heart.
“Anyway, did you girls enjoy the party?” Gabby asks. “I’m sorry I was so preoccupied with making sure everything went smoothly, and then the proposal threw me for a loop.”
“It’s was a blast,” Reagan says.
My mind goes back to Cal, Sara, and AJ. I’m really interested to learn more about that dynamic.
“What about you?” Gabby asks me.
“I had a good time.”
She breathes a sigh of relief, almost as if everything was hanging in the balance based on my experience.
“You know I love a good party, and I met some new people—like AJ Bennett. Tell me more about him,” I say.
The corner of Gabby’s mouth curls up. “Why?”
“I’m just curious.”
She sips her water. “I’ve only been around him a few times. Theo actually met him through Cal.”
I nod. “Yes, I heard he and Cal used to work together.”
“Which one is AJ?” Reagan asks.
The image of AJ and Sara talking pops into my head. I describe him, and her mouth drops open.
“Ohhh, I saw him.”
“AJ is definitely fun,” Gabby adds. “And he’s always been nice to me. Theo says he’s usually the life of the party.”
“I can see that.”
“Now tell me why you’re curious,” she demands.
I tighten my jaw. I want to tell them about seeing Sara talking to AJ and about how she was acting when I asked her about him.
“AJ is attractive,” I say.
“And.”
“I think there’s something going on with him and Sara,” I blurt out.
Gabby frowns.
“Cal’s girlfriend, Sara?”
I hold up my hand. “Before you say anything, hear me out.”
I continue to tell her about their body language and how she was clearly bothered when he and I were talking.
“I know I’m reaching here, but I usually have a sense for this stuff.”
