Page 24 of Bray
Iwashungry and I loved his mom’s mac and cheese.
“Lainey might be mad our plans got cancelled and now I’m going to your parents’ house.”
He shook his head. “She’ll understand. After what happened, we want you both safe.”
“We could’ve just stayed at my house,” I added. “It’s short notice and all.”
“If you stayed home, what were you going to eat?” he asked.
It wasn’t accusatory. In fact, his voice was softer than I’d ever heard before.
I shrugged. “Pasta probably.”
“You mean ramen?”
My cheeks flamed hot at the question. He knew I didn’t have much food. Fortunately, he didn’t push. Instead, he said, “It’s not short notice when it’s family.”
“But I’m–”
“You’re mine, kitten, and that makes you family, even though you were pretty much part of it as Lainey’s best friend. Don’t worry, I’ll get you back early if you need to check on the horses before bed.”
I didn’t know what else to say, so I only nodded.
What did one say to a guy you’d had a crush on since you were a kid, you had sex with and wanted forever but knew it was just temporary? Guys tossed out stuff to get a woman into bed, things she wanted to hear.
Well, for me, it was one word.Mine.
That got me hot. That got him in my panties. He got me off several times, which was impressive, but he was a gentleman. All the Wilder brothers were. While I was pretty sure their mom, while they were growing up, pushed being respectful and courteous to women, I doubted she’d added that they needed to make sure a woman orgasmed first when having sex.
I was sure to be just one of many for Bray. He’d come to my rescue not once, but twice in the same number of days. He’d learn I was too much work. Too hard. Too quiet. Too… everything. He’d get tired of rescuing me. A pretty, glossy woman would cross his path and he’d pat my head and put me back in the little sister’s friend zone.
I was glad I had sex with Bray, to finally get that first time out of the way. God, it had been amazing. But I needed to be realistic. It had been sex. Only sex. It wasn’t more. He and his brothers felt obligated to help me with the broken window. God, I’d almost forgotten all about that, which was proof I was losing my mind.
I’d have to pay for a new window. Thankfully, I had time before winter set in and required it to be replaced. Heating was expensive and it would just seep right out through that hole, covered or not.
Bray squeezed my fingers again as we turned down the driveway. Bray. Me and Bray. In my mind, I was trying not to doodle little hearts around our names. If Ilet it be anything more, I’d be hurt when this was over. I was twenty-six. It was a fling.
I would be back to being alone, but with an amazing sexual experience to remember. Nothing more. I had to stay in my place. The friend.
I wasn’t really a Wilder. I never would be.
And I’d never be Bray’s, no matter what he thought.
16
BRAY
I hadno idea why Kitten seemed so nervous walking through the front door of my parents’ house. She’d been here often over the years, even having sleepovers with Lainey more times than I could remember back when they were kids. Although, she’d never arrived with me.
We made it into the kitchen before everyone swarmed us and I was forced to let go of her hand. The scent of baking cheese and barbecue sauce filled the air. The kitchen table–big enough for fifteen–was set, a huge bowl of salad, dressings, a loaf of bread, and water glasses were waiting already.
“There you are!” Ma called, before pulling Kitten infor a hug, then leading her around the big island. “It’s been too long since you’ve been by. Did you hear about the new foal?”
Zeb was there grabbing a chunk of cheese off of the snack board set on the center island. He tossed it into his mouth, then raised his hand and, as usual, Kitten gave him the expected high five.
Lainey walked past and handed off a glass of wine to her. Kitten took a sip as Ma kept her occupied.
“Dinner will be ready in a little bit but let’s get you some nibbles. You’ve had quite the day!”
