Page 35 of Holly versus Mr. Ivy
If I had arranged for Noah to meet Rhett, I would be all for their introductions. Since Trevor was the one who’d likely told Noah to come over, my senses were on high alert. “You already exchanged names. What more do you need?”
Rhett completely ignored me and addressed Noah. “You’re Holly’s cousin?”
Noah’s lips broke into a huge grin. “I am. You’re stuck working with her, huh? Is she as bossy and rigid with her schedules at the restaurant as she is at home?”
Rude!My schedules kept things clear and easy for everyone. Also,stop talking like I’m not right next to you, Noah!I glared at my cousin, the newest entry on my shiz list.
“Yeah, she is. But I wouldn’t use the word stuck.” Rhett’s head tilted as if thinking of how to phrase his next statement. “I’d sayprivilegedto getto work with her. That she tolerates me, and has accepted my friendship, is good enough for me.”
A rush of warmth flooded my heart at Rhett’s kind words—dangerous words because they made me fall for him.
I expected Noah to respond with another teasing remark. Instead, his face turned to stone. “You’re right, man. It is a privilege to be in Holly’s inner circle. Those of us who are already here are very protective of her.”
Rhett wasn’t intimidated by Noah’s quick change in attitude. “Well, then. I’m even more grateful to have been accepted into this elite group. I won’t let her down.”
“See that you don’t,” Noah warned.
All righty, this was getting a little too testosterone-y for me. I patted Noah’s shoulder. “Thank you for that awkward conversation. Are you sticking around for a bit? If so, I’ll walk Rhett out andchatwith you in a minute.” And by chat, I meant give him a piece of my mind. How dare he waltz in here on Trevor’s command and act all protective of me.Absurd.
“I brought some new flavor samples I want you to try. The tray’s out in the garage. I’ll go grab them.”
Rhett stood, holding his hand out to Noah. They shook hands, apparently at ease. “Nice to meet you. I’m sure we’ll see one another again.”
“If you can handle my Hols, then absolutely.” A funny look crossed Noah’s features. “Hey, uh, we get together for brunch and games the first Sunday of every month. You should join us next week.”
No way was Noah inviting Rhett over during our family time.
Watching movies for the sake of Rhett’s blaringly obvious hint about friendship was one thing. Rhett coming to eat and play games with us had nothing to do with work, and while I liked Rhett and wanted to spend time with him, if anyone found out, we’d lose our jobs. I jumped in before Rhett could respond. “We both work Sundays. I’m sure Rhett has other things to do than hang out with us when he’ll have to see me right after at the restaurant.”
Rhett pretended to be offended, complete with a scoff and an incredulous look. “You would deprive me of the pleasure of an entire day in your company?”
More like trying to save our careers.
Noah’s gleeful grin bounced back and forth between Rhett and me.
I ignored him and shot Rhett a dry look. “Don’t pretend like I’m doing you a disservice by offering you an out.”
Rhett chuckled. “Oh, but you are.” He turned to Noah. “I’d be delighted to come. What time do you start, and what can I bring?”
“Rhett,” I warned.
Noah shot me a smug smile before addressing Rhett. “We start at ten. Don’t worry about food. Hols and I have it covered. Feel free to bring any card or boardgame you like. We’re always looking for new ones to play.”
Rhett’s head cocked to the side. “Are you a chef too?”
“Nah.” He shook his head. “I just make donuts.”
I rolled my eyes at his self-deprecation. “You don’tjustmake donuts.” I explained to Rhett, “He makes a variety of pastries similar to donuts from around the world. He owns a food truck.”
“Sweet. Food obviously runs in your family. I bet get-togethers are delicious. I’m excited to join in.”
I pushed Rhett’s shoulder, needing him to get out of my house before Noah said or did anything else. “Now it’s really time for you to leave.”
Rhett let me push him. That’s right,let me, because there was no way my petite frame could move the built-like-a-wolf man without him allowing it. He chuckled as my arms continued to usher him to the front of the house. I pointed at his shoes, a silent demand he keep moving.
Rhett raised one brow. “Does the thought of me joining you for your family game time bother you that much?”
Chapter 15
