Page 2 of Blame It On the Lattes

“No, Sam. Please, I insist.”

“You’re good. I promise. Have fun, and make sure Kennedy gets more sugar in her for tonight. Cassidy hasn’t had a wild night in a long time,” I teased, knowing I would get under her skin.

“Hey, there is nothing wrong with being in my pajamas by six o’clock and enjoying a glass of wine while watching Jeopardy and doing a crossword puzzle,” Cassidy objected.

“That’s whatold peopledo.” I raised an eyebrow at her. “You’re barely twenty-nine.”

“Well, I guessyouwould know,” she shot back with a smirk.

“I’m barely thirty-five and couldn’t even tell you what channel Jeopardy comes on. I’m too busy being out and about, living my life while I’m still young enough to.”

Cassidy rolled her eyes as she turned and faced Avery.

“And by that, he means going and getting shit-faced at his best friend’s bar.”

“I mean, that does sound kinda fun,” Avery said with a giggle, her cheeks blushing the softest shade of pink as she looked up at me from under thick, dark eyelashes. “I can’t remember the last time I did that.”

I felt a tightness in my chest from the sadness in her voice. There were so many questions I wanted to ask, but now wasn’t the time, and the line out the door said it wasn’t the place.

Cassidy caught my eye and looked over her shoulder to see what I was looking at.

“We’ll get out of your hair. Thanks for the drinks. See you tomorrow night for dinner.” Cassidy grabbed her and Kennedy’s drinks she had set on the counter and started toward the door.

“You guys have plans tomorrow night?” Avery questioned, panic in her voice as she stood there, looking between us.

“We do family dinner every Sunday,” Cassidy replied with a smile. “And you two are joining us.”

“Oh no. We’re not trying to impose on anyone while we’re here. I told you that we just needed a place to stay for a few days until I figured out the next step.”

“And I told you that you’re family, and you will stay as long as you need.”

They tried to speak softly, but it was still loud enough for me to hear.

Something was going on with Avery, and I hated the worried look on her face. One way or another, I was going to figure out what it was.

Two

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