Page 200 of Surprisingly Us

“That would not be a good idea for many reasons.” I don’t want him to get in the habit because performance costumes are typically revealing. I’ve already had to tell him to tone down the bite marks on my inner thighs. Pink tights are not good at covering things up, and makeup can only hide so much.

“Fine. I’m going.” He squeezes my waist before he starts to back away. “To my birthday party. All alone. By myself.”

I’m about to roll my eyes when he swoops back in. Wrapping an arm around my waist, he turns me to face him, and drops his forehead to mine.

“You make me happy.”

My entire body bursts with joy. It’s not a declaration of love, but it feels like a step toward it. Like it’s Rhys’s version ofI love you.

“I can’t wait to celebrate with you tonight.” My hands wrap around his neck. “And you make me happy, too.”

I press my lips to his, then give him a playful push toward the door.

“I’ll meet you there.”

“Okay. Text me when you’re on our way,” he says.

“I will.”

With a final kiss, Rhys leaves and I finish getting ready.

CHAPTER 62

Rhys

When I arrive at Brandy Library, in Lower Manhattan, my birthday party is in full swing. Even though Lettie’s rehearsal schedule has been intense over the past week, she still insisted on planning a party for me.

The venue is a classic gentleman’s club with a modern twist, featuring mahogany woodwork and leather furnishings. Floor-to-ceiling bookshelves display the lounge’s impressive collection of spirits and wines. There are even sliding ladders to access the top shelves.

“It’s a library filled with bottles of cognac,” Chloe announces. “I’m just now realizing why it’s called Brandy Library.”

Beside Sebastian, Ramsey laughs. “Did you think it was an actual library?”

Even in the dim lights, Chloe’s face flushes pink. “I’ll admit it crossed my mind. I mean, I would hold my birthday party in a library.”

“It’s got a great vibe.” Emma takes a sip of her cocktail. “One of the brides I’m designing a dress for currently had some engagement photos taken here. They turned out amazing.”

“You know what? We have been meaning to redecorate.” Barrett wraps his arm around Chloe’s waist. “This gives me an idea.”

Chloe gasps. “Don’t you dare.”

I know Chloe is one of the assistant editors at St. Clair Press and as an avid reader, she would probably rather see books on these shelves.

“We have a beautiful library at home and not a single book on those shelves will be touched. Unless I’m simply moving them around like I do from time to time.”

Barrett presses a kiss against her temple. “You know I would never change anything about your library, baby.”

As Chloe and Barrett settle their dispute, Hannah and James join our group.

“Happy birthday, man.” James nods in salute before raising his glass in my direction.

“Thanks.” I nod, lifting my glass toward his.

“Where’s Lettie?” Hannah asks, looking around.

I’d like to know the answer myself. I glance at my phone for the hundredth time since I got here.

“She had a last-minute errand to run. It’s top-secret birthday stuff, I guess.”

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