Page 36 of Bumping into You

“Definitely,” Gwen agrees.

Finishing our food, we remind each other of the water show later that evening, then pile into the elevator to go our separate ways.

After a few floors, it’s just Gwen and me, the others having gotten off earlier to do their own things.

“Ladies first,” I say, gesturing to Gwen.

“Thank you.” Stepping out of the elevator, she pauses, waiting for me before we continue the walk to our rooms.

“You really should come to Chessie Valley sometime,” she says. “I know the guys would like having you around more.”

“Are the guys the only ones who’d like my company?” I tease.

Rolling her eyes at me, she says, “Well, I’m sure the others would like to see you too. And my parents, as annoying as that is. Mom and Dad can’t stop talking about how charming you are.”

“You don’t think so?”

“I mean, you’re not the worst to be around.” She bumps into me lightly.

I bump her back then say, “Wow, that was probably one of the nicest things you’ve said about me, Rose. We should document this moment or put it on a billboard.” I hold up my hands, arching them across the wall. “Rose says I’m not the worst to be around.”

She laughs, amusement dancing in her eyes. Her laugh is so sweet and sincere, like a wave spilling into my heart, gently cresting and breaking softly toward the shore. It’s like thisbeorewas hand-picked by my mam.

Unable to help myself, I reach out and pull her into a hug, grateful to spend time with her, if even just for a short time. It’s helping me move past my sadness and feel alive again.

“What . . .” says Gwen, muffled against my chest.

“See you tonight?”

“Tonight?” asks Gwen. “Oh, the water show, right. Yeah, see you then.”

I nod and pull her away from me, still holding onto her arms. Leaning in gently, I kiss her check before turning and walking into my room.

Chapter 17

Gwen

Niall kissed my cheek.

No biggie, right? Wrong.

Why did he do that? It’s clearly against the rules of our agreement. Bradley and Tammy weren’t even around.

Was my saying something nice to him that much of a shock? No, that can’t be it. He was just being nice. Right?

I’m still reeling from the kiss as I work on my to-do list. I try to reach Becca but am unsuccessful. Then, I message Courtney.

Gwen

Hi Courtney, I just wanted to check in and make sure everything is still on track for the reception. Remember, we want to have a dance floor with the tables surrounding it on three sides.

CourtneY

Just checked my notes and that’s how it appears to me. All good on my end, I was just about to head to talk to the chef and make sure he has everything for the menu.

Gwen

No worries. I have a few minutes to talk to him.

---