Page 61 of Curvy Love

Isabel is Alex’s younger sister and she’s married to an enormous football player who completely adores her. And she happens to make the most delicious chocolate ever so she’s obviously one of my favorite people.

“Oh my gosh, you know what I just thought of?”

“What?” Laurel asks.

“Alex’s churros would be amazing dipped in some of Isabel's chocolate if it were melted. You know what I mean? Like a little dipping sauce. Chef’s kiss.”

Alex stops cooking and just stands there, spatula in hand staring at me. “That’s actually quite brilliant. The cinnamon and spiciness in her pepper chocolate would marry perfectly.” He pulls out his phone and taps out what I’m assuming is a message.

I look back at my sister, smiling because obviously I’m a genius.

Laurel’s eyes are narrowed. “There’s something you’re not telling me.” Then her gaze travels over my face.

I get distracted because Alex comes to the table with plated migas - eggs scrambled with peppers and onions and strips of corn tortillas then smothered in cheesy goodness.

“This looks amazing,” I tell him as he puts a plate in front of me. “Oh, and bacon too.”

“You have beard burn!” Lauren says.

I look up and she’s pointing at me with a wicked grin.

“What are you talking about?”Shit. Shit. Shit.

She runs her hand over her throat and then across her cheek. “All over here. I know what beard burn looks like, Will. Hairy husband.” She nods towards Alex.

He’s just smiling down at his eggs not saying anything.

I thought my skin looked a little pinker this morning, but I didn’t figure anyone would notice.

“Spill the details, Will, or I’ll get Paisley over here to do it.”

I look up at my second older sister. “Please don’t do that. She’s relentless.”

“Exactly. So tell me.” Laurel smiles, clearly proud of herself.

I exhale slowly. I sneak a glance at Alex. “She’s not going to let this go, is she?”

“Unlikely.” His congenial smile fades a little. “Do you want some sister privacy? I can leave?”

I shake my head. “There’s not really anything to tell. So I went to that auction last night for Sabrina.”

“Oh, right, the rugby player, right?” Laurel asks.

“No, soccer. He’s just moved here from Scotland.”

Alex chokes on his bite of food, then proceeds to cough while Laurel pounds and rubs on his back. He takes a slow sip of water and wipes the corners of his eyes then stares at me. “Are you talking about the Beast of Edinburgh?ThatScottish soccer player?”

“Yes. Sabrina believes they’re soulmates,” I explain.

“And yet you’re the one with beard burn,” Laurel sing-songs.

“Oh shit.” Alex points at my neck. “That’s from the beast?”

My cheeks heat and I know my blush gives me away. “It was a misunderstanding. That’s all.”

“A misunderstanding?” Laurel asks. “He fell on your mouth and neck, beard first?”

Alex gets her attention and shoves a bite of migas in Laurel’s mouth and she chews and moans, nodding her approval. Then he looks at me. “Talk quickly.”

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