Page 20 of The Secrets We Treasure

“How could I forget? I kept picturing everything washed in Pepto Bismol.”

A snigger slurped in her throat. “Pepto Bismol? You make it sound disgusting.”

“Because it was.”

“I wanted pink flowers, ribbons, and people in fancy clothes dancing. Remember?”

“I had forgotten the part about the people dancing. I must’ve blocked that from my memory,” he joked.

“You used to get so mad when I tried to make you dance with me.”

His voice took on a husky edge. “Yeah, but that was before I realized being close to you had several other benefits.”

She took in a quick breath, both heat and yearning flooding her. She still dreamed about those kisses and how glorious it was to be in Greer’s arms. She twisted a lock of hair around her finger as she shifted the conversation. “You wanted a track with five race-cars in your room.”

“That’s right. What kind of cars?” he challenged.

She tipped her head, thinking. “A Porsche, Ferrari, Lamborghini, BMW.” She squinted. “I can’t remember the last one.”

“A Ford Mustang.”

“What did Laci want in her room?”

“She wanted it to be a concert for some sort of rock band.”

Treasure jogged her memory. “The Backstreet Boys,” she exclaimed.

“That’s right. Even worse than the Pepto Bismol,” he said dryly. “See what I had to put up with? The only boy hanging out with two girls.”

“You did okay.”

“Yeah, I did. So, will you come to my party on Saturday?”

Her heart picked up its pace. She was sorely tempted. “Wait a minute. You said the party was a surprise. How did you know?”

“Talon let it slip.”

“Good ole’ Talon.” She shook her head, grinning. Talon Chasing was two or three years younger than Greer. Talon had been more of an annoyance when they were kids—always trying to get Greer’s attention. Now, however, the two of them were super close. Treasure felt for Talon and all the turmoil he’d been through with his ex-wife Lina who’d first disappeared and then reemerged and tried to murder Talon’s girlfriend, Effie. Then, Lina was put on house arrest and escaped. In a strange turn of events, Carter Laramie, of all people, helped Lina escape. He had some sort of twisted fascination with her. The saddest part about the whole thing was that Lizette Laramie had shot Carter and killed him. Lizette was now in a mental health facility, and Lina was back in prison.

“Have you met Talon’s girlfriend?” She tucked her leg underneath her.

“I have. She seems like a great person.”

“Of course she is. Effie’s a Romeo.”

“Huh?”

“She’s cousins with Lexi Romeo. Lexi was one of the contestants on the first season that I went on The Singing Bachelor. In fact, she ended up with the bachelor. Lexi’s a jewel. If Effie is anything like her, then I know I’ll like her.”

“Does that mean you’ll come?”

She made a face. “I wish I could, but I’m taking Tray to Disneyland this weekend. His fall break is next week.”

“That’s awesome,” he said sincerely, but she could sense his disappointment. “So, will you get your picture taken with the Disney Princesses?”

“Probably not.”

“I’m sure they’ll be wearing pink,” he taunted.

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