Page 70 of A Little Twist

Looks like we’re doing this.

“We’re engaged,” I announce proudly. Cass gasps softly, and I put my hand over hers, threading our fingers.

“Love is not on my agenda, my ass.” Aiden narrows one eye at me. “How long have you been hiding this?”

“We didn’t want to steal your thunder at the wedding.”

“So you’re not really the nanny?” Britt turns her attention to her friend, who is blinking fast and starting to squirm.

I’m not having her getting cold feet. “She is Pinky’s nanny—for now. That’s all we’re saying to Penelope. Until we set a date and make everything final.”

“Looks pretty final to me if you’re wearing a ring.” A smile breaks across Britt’s face.

“Yes,” Cass quickly reinforces. “Don’t say anything to the kids yet. We don’t want them getting attached or getting hurt or anything.”

“And to think I was worried about you.” Britt jumps into Cass’s arms, squeezing her tightly. “This is the best thing to come out of this silly meeting! I can’t wait to start planning all the parties. Are you getting married at the distillery? Of course you are.”

“What did I miss?” Piper hurries up to where we’re standing.

“Cass and Alex are engaged!” Britt throws her other arm around Piper. “Isn’t it amazing? Another wedding so soon!”

“Not so soon!” Cass squeaks, looking slightly squeamish.

“What’s the problem?” Britt’s brow furrows.

“It’s all so sudden.” Cass blinks down to our clasped hands then up to her friend again. “We want to be sure, since Pinky’s involved, and well, because it’s always good to be sure.”

“Cassidy Dixon!” The stern voice makes Cass jump, releasing my hand at once.

“Aunt Carol!”

“Is that your car in the parking lot, young lady?”

“If you mean the Subaru, then yes—”

“You were not raised to post profanity on your vehicle. There are children in this town, and I expect you to set a good example.”

Cass’s lips part, and utter confusion lines her face. “I don’t know what you mean…”

Well, shit, talk about backfires.I step up to rescue my girl. “It’s my fault, Mrs. Dixon, it was a joke.”

“I don’t find this joke very funny, young man. I would think with your family being in law enforcement you’d know the importance of creating a positive environment for our young people.”

“Yes, ma’am. I apologize. It won’t happen again.”

Aunt Carol scrubs her arms over her waist muttering a begrudging acceptance, while Cass turns wide eyes on me. “What did you do?”

Rubbing my hand over my mouth, I swallow my laughter. “I got you back.”

“Is this about the BBL?” Piper hoots a laugh before dashing for the exit. “I’ve got to see what you did.”

Britt’s on her heels. “What’s the BBL?”

The room slowly empties, and it’s just the two of us standing, facing each other.

“I guess we’re officially in it now.” Cass’s voice is soft, and I want to pull her into my arms.

After last night, all I can think about is all the ways I want to claim her. “You asked me to help you until Drake left town. He’s still here.”

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