Page 47 of Bumping into You

“I like kissing you,” I admit.

“Me too,” she sighs, but then quickly adds, “I saw Bradley and Tammy coming around the corner, so . . .”

“Bradley and Tammy?” I ask.

“Yeah, it’s one of our rules, kissing when necessary. I thought they were coming our way, but they must’ve gone a different direction.”

Right, the rules, the agreement. Is that the only reason Gwen asked me to kiss her? For show in front of Bradley and Tammy?

“You’re right,” I say, giving her a soft kiss to her cheek andletting go of her. “That was one of our rules.” Sounds of the arena bring me fully back to the moment. Laser tag arena, the game, right. “But I haven’t forgotten we’re in the middle of a game.” I give her a playful smile and aim my laser gun right at her.

“You wouldn’t,” she says.

I only respond by pulling my trigger.

“Just you wait,” Gwen says, crossing her arms. “I’m going to get you back for that.”

I laugh as I turn the corner. “I hope you do.”

Chapter 21

Gwen

The girls ended up beating the guys and Tammy barely, but a win is a win. So, of course, we have bragging rights. Tammy, Bradley, and Vivian head off on their own, thank goodness, and after an early dinner at the Duke’s Diner, we all change into our swimsuits and head to the pool for a movie.

Many families are drawn to the pool deck for movie night. Everyone is laughing and having a good time either going down the slides, swimming, or just lounging and watching the movie.

After sitting on my lounge chair, I pull out my phone to check the itinerary for the rest of the day and tomorrow. Everything looks to be in order, so I message Becca.

Gwen

Hey Becca, how’d the Paterson and Co. company retreat go?

She’s quick to reply.

Becca

Everything went to plan and Larry Paterson has already booked us for next summer’s retreat, he’s thinking of having it over at the marina. I planned to chat with you and Trent about it once you are back from your cruise.

Gwen

Excellent news, I’ll be sure to set that meeting up when I’m back in town.

“Auntie Gwen, Auntie Gwen,” calls Maggie, skipping over to me dripping wet.

“Look at my swim vest!” Maggie exclaims, hopping up and down.

“It’s so pretty Maggie,” I say, trying to block my phone from the water she’s throwing everywhere.

“I know, I picked it outallby myself.” She twirls around like a little ballerina in her tutu swimsuit and bright pink swim vest.

“Did you see me jump in the pool?” she asks, giving me a big hug.

“No, sweetie, I missed it. I’m sorry. Can you show me again?” I say.

“Fine, but this time watch me swim to the other side once I jump in, okay?”

“Of course. I can’t wait to see!” I exclaim. My phone beeps, and I glance down to see another text from Becca.

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