Page 170 of Wild Card

He’s totally in love with my best friend.

And she feels the same.

Everyone is right. How did I miss this?

Have they been hiding because of me?

A lump lodges in my throat and I lunge forward, wrapping my arms around her. She folds into me, returning the tight embrace, and whispers, “We didn’t mean for you to find out that way.”

“I certainly hope not,” I whisper back, knowing my grandparents don’t need to hear the gritty details of my discovery.

They seem to think I figured it out on my own.

Chase kisses the top of my head. “Love you, Squeak.”

That’s about the extent of the apology he’ll offer. I’ll take it.

He pulls Bex from my hold and ushers us both inside. Grandma is sitting on the arm of the sofa, holding Grandpa’s hand with a beaming smile. Sneaky woman.

“This place looks better.” He motions around my living room.

“It’s hard to believe it’s been almost a week since I drove up on Joseph at my door and the events afterward. We’ve been busy cataloging everything damaged and ruined.”

“I would have helped you.” The hurt in Bex’s voice returns.

“There was no need for you to miss work, too. I already put the team in a bind, having to juggle my patient load.”

“You shouldn’t have had to do it alone.”

“Alone?” I scoff, covering my heart theatrically. “What is this alone you mention? I don’t even know the meaning of the word. I have babysitters… ahem, friends and family with me every minute Talon’s working.”

My attempt to humorize the situation backfires, and Bex’s expression turns pained. Chase’s eyes flicker with the same.

“I’m a bitch.”

They both tense.

“I’m the one who is sorry. My life has been topsy-turvy, but that is no excuse. The truth is, I was shocked when I learned you two were together. It was happening right before my eyes and I was ignorant. Everyone knew, even Mom. The shock wore off and my wounded pride settled in. Many times, I’ve picked up the phone to call or message, but I didn’t know what to say.”

“That’s why we stepped in, Willow. We knew you were struggling,” Grandma says softly. “Now is the time to get your answers and move on.”

“How long? When?” I blurt out.

“It surprised us, too. We’ve always been friends, but things evolved.” Bex glances at Chase anxiously.

“Things changed after you and Joseph broke up. Bex and I were worried about you and pissed at the situation. Spending time together led to more.” He takes her hand.

“The situation with Joseph happened over a year ago. Why hide?”

“That was all me. Like I said, there was a lot at risk. You and Wyatt being the most important.”

Many things dawn on me at once. “Oh my God! All those times you begged me to go out, you weren’t on the prowl.”

Bex grins shyly.

“No, she wasn’t,” Chase grunts.

“All our dinners, lunches, outings with Wyatt—you two have been together!”

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