Page 19

KIERAN
Isink into the warm, bubbly water of the jacuzzi and wait.
The place is deserted.
It’s perfect.
Heaven.
I didn’t think King would go for it when I asked for a little preview of his latest project that’s set to open in only a few days’ time, but to my surprise, my big brother was unusually accommodating.
It was probably Tate. He’s softened a lot since her, and then Prince, came into his life.
A smirk pulls at my lips as I think about the changes in my big brother.
I never thought I’d see the day where he willingly changed a diaper, but apparently hell has frozen over, because he is the most incredible father.
Soft music plays around me, mixing with the sound of running water. There are people running around everywhere behind the scenes getting this place ready, but you wouldn’t know from in here.
I lose myself in the tranquility of the moment and rest my head back.
Minutes tick by, and I’m not joined by anyone.
I wasn’t lying when I told Effie that everything she needed was in the locker room. I ordered it first thing this morning and gave the spa manager strict instructions to leave it out for her.
She should be ready by now.
Gazing around, I decide to take matters into my own hands.
Pushing from the water, I climb out, quickly rub myself down with a towel, and head toward the door for the ladies’ locker room.
Cracking it open, I shout, “Effie?”
“I’m coming,” my best friend calls back.
I don’t know what it is, but there is something in her voice that gives me pause, and without thinking, I push the door open and walk in.
“What’s wrong?” I ask when I find her standing in the middle of the room in her white fluffy robe with her arms wrapped protectively around her middle and tears in her eyes.
Her bottom lip trembles as she watches me approach. “I shouldn’t be here. I should be with Grams.”
“Effie,” I sigh, taking her face in my hands and holding her eyes. “It’s okay to look after yourself.”
She feels guilty for taking some time out. I get it.
“As soon as we’re done here, we’ll be at her side. And I promise you, you’ll feel better because of it.”
She nods once, but she doesn’t look like she really agrees.
“I promise, Eff. Now,” I say, changing tact, “let’s see this swimsuit. It looked hot when I chose it."
“Kieran,” she complains, her grip on the robe tightening as her cheeks heat.
“What? It had your name written all over it.”
“I never would have chosen this.”
“Exactly why I did. Come on. Show me.”