Page 124 of Stone
“What the…” I couldn’t finish the sentence.
“Thought you should use some company tonight,” Kage said then tugged on Juliette’s arm, bringing her closer. The two of them had certainly gotten closer since getting married.
Juliette smiled and immediately wrapped her arms around my neck. “It’s so good to see you.”
Tentatively I slipped my arm around her waist, noticing Charmaine was now standing close to the love of her life and Maddox was beaming.
The two couples looked as if they’d been together for years, their expressions highlighting their happiness.
Meanwhile, I was in a foul mood, more depressed than I should be given my son was here. He was real. He was my flesh and blood.
“What is going on?” I demanded and everyone around me laughed.
“You were never a patient guy,” Maddox told me.
Charmaine laughed and handed me a drink. “I think you need this. The island is amazing. Just incredible.”
“How long have the four of you been here?” I gave Kekoa another harsh glare.
He removed his sunglasses, acting as if he didn’t hear me.
“Long enough to enjoy paradise,” Juliette admitted.
Both women curled their arms in mine. “I think you need to come join the celebration.” Charmaine’s voice held determination.
Just like another woman I knew.
“Not until you tell me what this is.”
Tyler pushed me from behind. “Didn’t you tell me all good things come to those who wait?”
Growling, I allowed myself to be led through the crowd. “Remind me never to give you advice.”
The guests were dressed as if this was a special event, but every person retreated several feet as I passed.
My blood boiled, my heart thudding so damn hard I could feel the rumble in my ears. But I refused to get my hopes up.
Suddenly, the women slipped away, allowing me to fend for myself. I threw back the rest of my drink, placing the empty glass on a dirty dish tray.
There were dazzling works of art everywhere, and some incredible views of the island. My island. My home. The colors were vivid, depicting the incredible life we were all lucky enough to share.
As friends.
But another piece caught my eye, a portrait that immediately drew my attention. All sound was drowned out as I moved closer.
The painting was from the photograph Dani had taken of Kage, Maddox, and me in Paris. “What is this?”
“Pretty cool, huh?” Kage asked.
“I think we look damn good as a team,” Maddox added.
“A team,” Kage added. “Something for the three of us to always remember.”
I glanced at both my friends, nodding in response. We’d been through a hell of a lot together over the years, even deciding to allow our friendships to fade to keep our demons away. We’d failed. Now I was glad because I was better able to face the future.
And I’d be damned if it wasn’t looking brighter and brighter.
My entire system was rattled to the point I was shaking. Unable to breathe, I slowly turned my head, searching the room almost frantically.
