Page 67

“What everyone else has said?” Jo asked it like a question, her gaze glued to the plate in front of her. She didn’t want to hear what Piper had to say, that much was clear.

Piper rubbed her lips together, debating whether or not to continue. “I have an idea.”

“What idea?” Jo didn’t seem too thrilled.

But perhaps the change in conversation would help. “I think Bunny likes Bea, and I think, if we get out of their way, they’ll be more inclined to get over themselves and get together already.”

Jo narrowed her eyes. “You noticed it too.”

“Oh yeah, and I’m pretty damn sure it’s the only reason Bunny was willing tonegotiate.”Piper giggled and snagged a piece of French toast. This she could talk days about. Convincing her new friend to give up her old relationship and leave it in the past where it belonged was something she’d much rather avoid.

“What did you have in mind?”

“Well, it might also help solve your other little issue.” Piper pointed to the phone, wriggling her fingers.

“Now I’m really interested.”

“Let’s fake a relationship.” Piper grinned broadly. “Let’s pretend we’re together, make a semi-big deal out of it. Bunnywill have to face up to the fact that at least one of us isn’t straight, and Mandy will back the fuck off because you’re with someone.”

Jo’s face pinched in doubt. “I don’t know.”

“Well, what about Bea? Do you think it’d help her to get over whatever’s holding her back?”

“I’m holding her back.”

Piper canted her head in confusion. “You?”

Jo nodded. “She doesn’t want to be in a relationship if I’m not taken care of. She’s always been like that. She’s my big sister who took the role a little too far if you ask me.”

“Oh, I get that.” Piper was thinking of Bunny exactly. The two of them really were similar. “So let’s have you be taken care of by someone else, someone who definitely can take care of you, and then it eliminates the issue.”

“It might.” Jo worried her lower lip. “But I’m not sure it’ll solve the Mandy problem.”

“You never know. And if I get to kiss you more often, then I’m also going to take that as a win.” Piper smiled to ease the discomfort.

“If you get to kiss me?” Jo’s cheeks flushed. “What do you get out of it, though? I don’t want to put you out to fix my problems.”

Piper laughed. “You think I don’t get anything out of kissing you? God, you’re stunning. Any girl would be lucky to kiss you.”

Jo blushed furiously. “We’re talking seriously now.”

“Fine. I get a break from Bunny. She’s been riding my ass for months now, and I just need a break to have some fun. I promise I’m not going into this blind.”

“I’ll think about it.”

“Good.” Piper turned back to her breakfast. “If we want, I can ask Siena to set up a little press release.”

“Oh God. How much thought have you put into this?”

“More than I should have,” Piper mumbled. “But it’ll be worth it.”

TWENTY-ONE

bea

Bea’s heart hammered a little too hard as she opened her eyes and failed to recognize the clean uncracked ceiling above her. Memories floated back in slowly, and the smile spread like molasses over her lips. Thick and slow. Bunny had brought her home.

No, she definitely wasn’t in Kansas anymore. Or her shitty little apartment either.