Page 94 of Fauxmance

Phillipa and Delaney converged on me like a pack of hungry wolves.

"He usually goes for skinny girls," Delaney said, "but not always. Obviously."

The way she was eyeing my waistline may have been intended to make me nervous, but honestly? I took it all in stride. These girls were hilarious. It was clear what they were trying todo, and I couldn't hold back a grin.

"Obviously," I repeated. "What else?"

"Well," Phillipa said, listing the items on her fingers, "he likes girls with long hair who are very put together. Makeup is a must—though I guess some people can get by without it." She clucked her tongue. "And ooh, they're usually outgoing, even a little wild, anyone who his parents won't approve of, rich for sure, and he definitely prefers blondes."

Delaney tilted her head. "Why do you say that?"

"Well, Rachel was a blonde."

"Oh, that's right! She was!"

"Guys," Annabelle hissed, "that's enough."

"What?" Phillipa said innocently. "We were just talking to Hayden's new friend."

"Making sure she had all the info," Delaney added.

Pulling my shoulders back, I said, "I'm actually his girlfriend."

"Are you?" Phillipa's eyes were bright as she and Delaney exchanged a look. "I guess I should be the one congratulating you then."

My brow scrunched.

"Hayden's like a unicorn. If you really have managed to capture him, that's a feat within itself. Especially considering his past history."

Annabelle shook her head. "Phillipa, go away. Your guests must be missing you by now, and I think I saw Marco headed toward the bar as we were coming in."

Phillipa gasped. "I told them to keep him away from there. Delaney, let's go."

"But I wanted to talk to—"

"Let's go!"

The two of them rushed out, and I was amazed that Phillipa didn't trip over her dress. The gown's train got caught in the bathroom door a moment before a screech was heard. Then the door quickly opened and closed again, releasing her.

"Sorry about them," Annabelle said. "They're…yeah, no excuses. They kind of suck."

I laughed. "It's okay. Life is hard enough as it is. I try not to let the little things get to me."

"Good life motto."

"Hmm, I thought so." After a moment, I said, "It's really nice to meet you, Annabelle. I've heard good things."

"From Hayden? I'm surprised he doesn't lump me in with that bunch."

"He spoke highly of you."

"Well, he's my favorite cousin, so that's good. Not that there's much competition as you just saw."

Chuckling, I asked, "So, who's Rachel?"

"Who?" she said.

"Rachel. Your cousin mentioned—"

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