Page 32 of Needing Happily Ever After

“We were looking for you.” Faith grinned. Next to her, Logan didn’t look quite so pleased. His arms were crossed tightly, his lips pressed together.

“We didn’t mean to interrupt.” Brody chuckled. “And it does look like we were interrupting something.”

“No,” Katie answered quickly. “It’s not like that. I was just—”

“I bailed.” Next to her, Damon had gotten to his feet. “And Katie was just making sure I was okay.”

“Is that right?” Sarah couldn’t help but laugh. “Not like you need to explain it,” she added. “You are getting married, after all. It’s nice to see a couple so in love they can’t keep their hands off each other.”

Katie blushed at her friend’s assessment. If she only knew.

But really, what had just happened? It’s not as if Damon knew anyone would see them. Did he?

She wanted to look at him, but she didn’t trust herself and instead busied herself with her backpack. “Well, as long as you’re not really hurt, Damon.”

“Are you hurt?” Sarah asked. “I am a nurse. If there’s anything—”

“Honestly,” Damon interrupted smoothly, “I’m fine.” He touched his hand to Katie’s shoulder so casually that he probably had no idea the effect it had on her. “Really, my pride is just a little hurt that I bailed in front of Katie is all.”

“It’s fine.” She pulled away smoothly and slipped her backpack on as she walked back to her bike. “Everyone bails.” She forced a lightness into her voice. “It’s all part of the experience. And it makes the beers at the end of the trail even more worth it.” She grabbed up her bike and swung a leg over. “How about I lead this time? Faith, Sarah, Brody—you guys fall in behind me, and Logan, you can bring up the rear.” She vaguely heard Logan grunt in agreement, before she took off down the trail, eager to put some space between her and Damon and whatever had just happened between them.

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