Page 35 of Found By You
McCrae looked at me and seemed to be evaluating me. “Really? You think this is fun, going to a party where you don’t know anyone?”
I had to laugh. “Maybe that’s why I think it’s fun—because Idon’tknow anyone, including myself.”
Noah pointed at me. “She’s funny.”
McCrae grinned at me and rolled his eyes. “True.”
I couldn’t help but like the comment, unsure if it was true.
Noah shook his head. “Maybe we all should get amnesia.”
“Be careful what you wish for.” I shrugged and walked up the steps and through the front door that was propped open.
There were people talking animatedly and laughing.
Pictures of the Armstrong family adorned the mantel, and a banner reading “Happy 30th Birthday, McCrae!” hung above it all.
McCrae was instantly stopped by someone I didn’t recognize, but that didn’t bother me. “McCrae, you dog, you’re turning thirty,” the guy said. “Who knew when we would ride our bikes when we were twelve and play at your playhouse that we’d ever get to this day?”
McCrae laughed and pounded the guy on the back. Suddenly, he turned to me.
I didn’t want any of the awkward introductions. I gave him a little wave and then pointed to the kitchen. “I’m going to go see if your mom needs help.”
McCrae looked concerned, then nodded.
As I bobbed and weaved through the crowd of people, I recognized the song that was playing. This was MC Hammer. I danced a little bit as I walked, allowing myself to be happy. Of course, it also left me confused, just like when I experienced any strong emotion these days. Was I used to being happy? Had I had a thirtieth birthday? Who knew my age? Was I dating someone? Was I married? Where were they? And why did I recognize MC Hammer?
But I didn’t have too long to ponder it, because Kayla broke into my thoughts. “Sky,” she called out loudly from where she was filling up a big bowl of ice. “Do you want to come help me?”
It was like she could read my mind. “Yes.” I hurried over and picked up the rest of the bag of ice as she spread it into the big bowl.
The kitchen was a hub of activity; platters of appetizers covered the granite countertops, and several women worked together preparing more food. The aroma of something sweet baking in the oven mixed with savory herbs from a bubbling pot on the stove.
“I’m so glad you came,” Kayla said. “What do you think?”
I looked around and spotted all of her siblings, but there were so many more people I didn’t recognize. “It’s great.”
She winked at me. “Itisgreat. And do you want to hear the most hilarious thing?”
“Sure.” I loved the fact Kayla acted like I was her friend.
“The woman that McCrae has sort of been pining over for the last year and a half is here.”
I jolted. I had not been expecting this. “What?”
She nodded to the corner. “Ten o’clock, the long blonde hair. Her name is Rose Jones. I don’t know if he told you anything about her, but they dated all through high school, and she kind of pulled the same thing that Damon’s wife pulled, except she hadn’t married him already.”
Suddenly I felt totally out of place. Kayla was acting like I knew what Damon’s wife had pulled. “I … don’t get it.”
Kayla nodded. “Sorry. The point is, Rose wanted to go to New York and find herself, do some acting gigs and try to be in commercials, but apparently she’s home. So, I don’t know what’s going on.”
I stared at the beautiful blonde and hated the fact I felt really jealous. The woman was gorgeous and tall. She was wearing bright red pants, leopard-print high heels, and a white top that was slightly off the shoulder.
Kayla followed my gaze. She let out a low breath. “I can’t say that I’m happy she’s here.”
I turned to Kayla. “Will this make McCrae happy?”
Kayla shook her head slowly. “I don’t know, but even though Rose is the pastor’s daughter, believe me, that girl was neversaintly.”
