Page 55 of Hot Stuff
“Oh?” Oakley leans in. “Do tell.”
“She’s apparently pregnant.”
“What?” I sputter, the water I just sipped spraying into my hand.
Laken nods, her eyes on me. “I hear she was looking to pin that on you.”
“Ha! I haven’t touched the woman in over a year. Not since I laid eyes on Oak.”
It’s not a lie. I haven’t been with Kristina in a physical way since last season. I can’t even remember when exactly, but I know it’s been over a year.
“Ah, how sweet.” Laken’s gaze moves to Oakley. “I’m so glad you found a man who appreciates you for who you are.”
Deciding the evening needs an injection of humor, I say, “Are you kidding? I always wanted a sugar mamma.”
It takes a second for them to realize I’m joking, but once they do the laughter lasts a while.
And it’s the perfect start to the rest of our meal. Which is full of great conversation and the most divine food I’ve ever tasted.
Oakley
“Thanks for the ride.” I lean in to hug Laken and whisper, “Call if you need anything.”
She holds on a little tighter. “I will. I hope I won’t have to, but I will. I’m over not asking for help. Promise.”
I let her go and offer my hand to Rafe. “It was a pleasure to meet you, and let me thank you for the lovely meal because I’m sure it wouldn’t have been anywhere near as delicious if I hadn’t been dining with the chef’s brother.”
“Oh, I wouldn’t bet on that. The menu at Raff’s is always above par.” He adds a smile to his handshake and I have to wonder if he’ll be so friendly when he finds out about the Rogues.
“Well, I suppose it would have to be, but nothing beats personalized service from the chef himself.” Walker slips his arm around my waist. “We should do this again.”
“Yes. Next time you’re in New York.” Laken puts her hand on Rafe’s arm. “We should get going. I have to be up early to meet with the lawyers.”
“I told you I’d go with you.”
She’s shaking her head. “Not this time. I need to take this first step on my own.”
I don’t know what’s going on with these two but I’m glad my friend has someone in her corner. I’m ashamed to admit after Gerald Senior died, I let my friendship with Laken slip. I should have made more of an effort to stay in contact.
“I’ll call you next week,” I say to Laken. “We can make time to chat over a glass of wine.”
I don’t need to elaborate to let her know I’ll be her sounding board or shoulder or soldier. I know she’s in for a rough few months, and I’ll do my best to support her.
“I’d like that. But I’m not sure how much time I’ll have?—”
“I’ll make sure you have time.” Rafe’s words are made of steel.
“On that note.” Laken gives me another smile and quick hug. “We really need to go.”
We stand on the sidewalk outside Walker’s apartment and wait for them to get back in Laken’s SUV.
The driver closes the door behind them before turning to us, “Get in out of the cold.”
I grin, recognizing Arthur from trips I took with Pa to visit Gerald Senior. It’s a reminder that I should fill Walker in on the history between my family and the Cantrells.
“Goodnight, Arthur, drive safe.”
“Always, Miss Annie.”
