Page 32 of Chasing Sunsets

But that didn’t feel like a friendly kiss. Not by a long shot.

Anson

The smell of coffee and something warm and buttery pulls me from my dream.

I was back in the cab of my truck with Tabby. I had meant to just tease her a little and didn’t expect for her to kiss me. But it was a damn good kiss—one that left me worked up and wanting more.A lot more.I came home and took a long, cold shower, which didn’t help in the least.

For a second, I just lie here, eyes closed, listening to the faint sounds of movement coming from the kitchen. The clinking of dishes. The quiet shuffle of feet. The low hum of Audrey singing under her breath.

I groan and stretch, rubbing a hand down my face before sitting up. The sun’s already spilling through my bedroom window, bright and inviting. I throw on a T-shirt and some sweatpants before making my way down the hall.

Audrey stands at the stove, her long red hair in a messy bun, wearing an oversize sweatshirt and a pair of leggings. She looks up as I step into the kitchen and smirks. “Well, look who finally decided to wake up.”

I yawn, running a hand through my hair as I drop onto a stool at the kitchen island. “Didn’t realize we were having a full breakfast this morning. I like having you around.”

She gestures to the frying pan. “Figured I’d be nice since I’m technically still a guest here. You’re welcome.”

I glance at the plate she slides toward me—scrambled eggs, crispy bacon, and a slice of buttered toast. “Well, damn. If I’d known you were this domestic, I would’ve talked Parker into asking you to move in months ago.”

She laughs, pouring me a cup of coffee before turning back to the stove. “Parker’s in the shower, so I figured I’d make myself useful.”

I take a sip of coffee, letting it jolt me awake. “You’re going to damage your badass reputation, spoiling us like this.”

She tosses a glance over her shoulder, smirking. “Yeah, well, that’s what happens when you’re happy, I guess.”

I can’t argue with that. Parker’s a good guy. Always has been. And Audrey? She’s probably the best thing that’s ever happened to him.

“So,” she says, sliding another plate onto the counter for Parker, “what’s on your agenda today?”

I lean back, rubbing a hand over my jaw. “Got a meeting with my realtor this morning. She’s showing me another house.”

Audrey’s brows lift. “Another one? What’s this, the third?”

“Fourth.”

She whistles. “You being picky, or has nothing tickled your fancy?”

I shrug. “If I’m gonna buy, I want it to be the right one.”

She studies me for a second. “You’re really serious about moving out, huh?”

I nod, taking another sip of coffee. I finally told Parker I was looking at homes. “Yeah. I mean, I don’t have to, but …” I pause, searching for the words. “Feels like it’s time, you know?”

She smiles, understanding. “I get it.” Then, with a teasing glint in her eye, she adds, “Though, for the record, I wouldn’t mind if you stayed. I think I could handle living with both of you.”

I chuckle. “Oh, I know you could handle it.” Audrey’s never been one to be intimidated by much—least of all me. “But it’s not about that. It’s just …” I exhale. “I don’t know. Feels like I should have my own space.”

Her grin widens. “Aww. Look at you, growing up.”

I roll my eyes, but she just laughs, setting down the spatula.

“So, after your house-hunting adventure, what else do you have going on?”

I clear my throat, suddenly very interested in my eggs. “I’m taking Tabby out on Dad’s boat.”

She snorts. “Of course you are.”

I shoot her a look. “What’s that supposed to mean?”

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