Page 135 of The Long Game

“Because I am,” Josie pointed out with a smile. “I’m also more than just that. I’m her sister, so game over for you, I guess.” She glanced up at me and mouthed,He’s cute. But annoying.

Matthew exhaled loudly. “I can read lips and I just saw you doing that. The back camera was on since you switched it around to show me the facilities I hadn’t seen in person.”

Josie shrugged. “I thought you wanted to be shown around. Considering you were never invited and all.”

“Sure thing, sweetheart,” Matthew drawled. “You think I’m cute.”

“And annoying.”

Matthew grinned. “Sticking with cute. I have excellent selective hearing.”

Josie snorted and launched herself into a speech that included a list of celebrities she thought were cuter than him. Matthew listened carefully, as if taking mental notes to refute her.

Cameron’s hand shifted to my waist. “That’s… a shocking turn of events. I think we should intervene.” A pause. “Should I do it or will you?”

“I’ll take this one for the team,” I said, reaching out and grabbing the phone from a surprisingly reluctant Josie. She flushed, whirled around, and ran away with a quick “See ya!” Literally. I filed that for later and refocused on Matthew. “Okay, what’s up? Why were you calling? Something happened?”

“I…” Matthew trailed off. His expression fell. “Is the lodge you own in Green Oak free?”

I frowned.

“Yeah,” Cameron said, and I could hear the same hint of concern I was feeling in his voice. “We’re living closer to the club now.”

Matthew nodded. “Then, I have a favor to ask.”

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