Page 45 of Heart Set on You

“What?” Ellie’s eyebrows shoot up, the word barely audible with her mouth full of chocolate cake.

“You’re not fooling anyone, Ells. Everyone knows how much you like to eat,” Liam says. “Personally, I think it’s sexy as hell.”

“I know you do,” Ellie tells him with a wink.

Liam leans over and kisses her on the cheek, resting one hand on her growing belly. They really are crazy about each other, anyone can see it. Watching them together makes me feel happy, but also envious. I stroke the soft skin of Rylee’s knee with my fingertips. Taking a sip of her drink, she turns her gaze to me, placing her small hand over mine.

“Now, speaking of this bean in my belly, Miles, are you coming home for the baby shower?”

“I’m planning on coming home, but you’re not really going to make me go to the baby shower, are you?”

“Thanks a lot. Your niece or nephew heard that, by the way,” Ellie says, pointing to her baby belly.

“Nephew,” Liam quickly chimes in. He’s adamant that Ellie is pregnant with a boy. “Don’t worry, Miles. The boys are golfing. We’re bringing Dad too. There’s no fucking way I’d make you go to a baby shower. I’m not that big of an asshole.”

“In that case, I’ll definitely be there.”

We spend the rest of the afternoon laughing and telling stories. Rylee fits in seamlessly with my family, and they’re all interested in getting to know her. It’s one of the best days I’ve had in years. When Rylee leaves the table to go to the restroom, Olivia leans in and tells me I should bring Rylee with me when I go back to Reed Point. It’s like she’s reading my mind. I was going to ask her later today when we are alone.

“Do you think she’ll say yes?” Olivia asks.

I pause, considering it. “That’s a good question. I’m really not sure. It would be a big step for her.”

Olivia looks at me with a smile in her eyes. “We all really like her, if that’s not obvious. Don’t let this one get away. She’s a keeper.”

I’m pretty sure a goofy grin takes over my face. “I like her too, Liv. A lot. Now, if I could only think of a way for us to be together in the same damn city.”

“We’re here for you, Miles. Whatever you need.”

“I know. Thanks, Liv.”

Olivia mock fans her face with her hand. “I have goosebumps. This is it, Miles. It’s happening.”

“Focus on the shower, you’re not planning my wedding just yet.” I pick up my napkin and swat her arm with it.

“Okay, okay,” she snorts, rubbing her arm. “I’ll stop, but I’m so, so, so happy for you.”

After paying the bill, we decide to walk the seawall. The sun is shining and we’re trying to make the most of our last day together in Vancouver. I have my sunglasses on, and my ballcap pulled low, and so far I’ve managed not to draw the attention of any well-intentioned fans.

I reach for Rylee’s hand but she pulls away.

“There’s just so many people around, Miles,” she says apologetically. “Anyone could see.”

“I just want to hold my girlfriend’s hand in public like any normal person would,” I tell her.

It can be kind of fun, sharing this little secret, keeping our relationship just for ourselves. But on days like today, I want to shout it from the rooftops and tell the whole fucking world that Rylee Brookes is mine. But I know she’s scared. The last thing she wants is to be involved in a whole media firestorm, and I get that. Thankfully the internet has moved on from the rumors about Violet and me, turning its attention from the “Viles” bullshit to some other celebrity scandal that doesn’t involve me. I’ve never been happier to be yesterday’s news.

Rylee pulls her bottom lip under her teeth, looking like there’s something on her mind. There she goes again, making me come undone without even trying. Lust crackles through me. I want her to bite her lip again, preferably while stroking my dick with her soft hands. I’m so fucking done for this girl.

“Girlfriend?” she asks, with a grin that looks both nervous and hopeful. Not to mention cute as hell.

“I hope so. That’s how I think of you.”

I laugh because she looks like she’s in a bit of shock. Her bright green eyes sparkle in the sun. “I wasn’t sure what we are. I mean.…” She stops and takes a deep breath in. “It’s just been a while, you know?”

“Since you’ve dated a guy?” I blurt out, then feel like a dick for it. The rest of the gang are up ahead so I’m not worried about anyone hearing us, but I feel like it came out all wrong.

“Since I’ve done anything with a guy.”

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