Page 48 of Broken Hearts
“Hey, if you don’t appreciate my snacks, don’t eat them.” I swipe the bag of almonds from the middle and hold them close to my chest.
His blue eyes twinkle as he smiles at me. “What’s a typical Thursday night for you?”
“Not that different,” I mock him. “Picnicking half naked with hockey boys.”
My phone lays at my feet, close enough Rhett can see the screen when it rings. Elias’ name and face displays.
I wave a hand toward it as if to say,See? I’m a wanted woman.
Rhett chuckles. “Don’t let me keep you from setting up plans for tomorrow.”
I’m sure he doesn’t expect me to answer, but I do just that, bringing the phone close to my face and smiling sweetly. “Hey there, honey.”
“Honey?” Elias’ face twists in confusion. “Okay, sugar bottom.”
“What?” I burst into laughter. “Please don’t tell me you call girls sugar bottom.”
“Not any worse than honey.” He grimaces. “What’s up? Where are you?”
“I am with a boy.” I turn the phone so Elias can see Rhett. The latter waves, looking uncertain. “Rhett, this is my friend Elias.”
“Ooooh,” Elias coos and waves back, “Hey, man.” He lowers his voice. “Why are you answering your phone? Go, have sex.” He shoos me with a hand.
Rhett chuckles. My face warms. “We’re just hanging out, having a picnic.”
“An all you can eat buffet kind of thing?” He raises his brows seductively.
“What? Eww. Gross, Elias.” I point the phone toward our snacks. “No, real food.”
“Mine sounds more fun.”
“Well, I’m very sorry I answered now, thanks a lot.” I shake my head, sneak a look at Rhett who’s grinning. “What’s up? You’ve got one minute.”
“Nothing. I was just calling to check in.”
Which means he was calling to tell me the latest in his disastrous dating life.
“All good here. You?”
“Fine, fine. Have fun and text me in the morning to let me know you’re good.”
“Okay.”
“Now, hand the phone to Rick.”
“Elias,” I warn.
“Hand the phone over, sugar bottom, or I’ll keep calling all night long.”
Reluctantly, I do because Elias isn’t one to threaten without following through.
“Hey, man,” Rhett says casually like this is a totally normal occurrence.
“Hey, what’s up?” Elias says in his smooth, charming voice. “Listen, I’m going to need your address and phone number. Consider it a security deposit for hanging out with my girl.”
Rhett’s brows lift and he looks to me. I bury my face in my hands.
“Not like that,” Elias says. “She is into some sick, twisted shit.”
