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Once the others had left her things and headed back toward the living room, Merritt moved closer to the windows to get a better look.
“Do you like it?”
She startled and looked back to see Gus standing in the doorway. “I do.”
“Good.” He looked like he wanted to say something else, but he didn’t. “I’ll let you get settled in then.”
She was relieved to be left alone. This whole situation was beyond awkward.
As she began unpacking, Adelia came in and closed the door behind her.
“How ya doin’?” she asked.
“I’m fine.” Merritt opened the closet door and went about hanging up her clothing.
“Do you want some help?” Adelia grabbed a few of the shirts without waiting for a reply.
“Thanks, but I don’t have that much to put away. The movers are bringing the rest of my things over next week.” She took the shirts from Adelia and placed them next to the others.
“Hey, you know if you need to talk or just get away from here, I am right down the road.”
“I know.” She kept doing what she was doing.
“Merritt.”
She stopped moving and looked over at her friend.
“Look, I wasn’t exactly on board with this when you guys told me, but I think you’re doing the right thing.”
Merritt’s brow furrowed. “Am I? Because I’m pretty sure I’ve lost my mind.”
“You’re helping out a really good guy and making a good business decision in the process.”
“This is by far the craziest thing I have ever done, and I’m still not sure how I let myself get talked into this.”
“Gus can be very convincing when he wants something.” Adelia had a little twinkle in her eye, which piqued Merritt’s curiosity.
She paused with an empty hanger in hand. “Were you and Gus ever involved?”
Adelia laughed hysterically. “Never.”
“Did you want to be?”
“Not for a second. The tabloids like to make up stories about us, but none of it’s true. He’s like a brother to me. That would just be …” She shivered as she screwed up her face.
“Sorry. I was just curious. You two are obviously close.”
“We are. He’s important to me. You married one of the best guys I know.”
A sound of disgust escaped from Merritt’s throat.
“And I’ve heard he’s a really good kisser, so that’s a plus for you.”
“What? Why would I care if he’s a good kisser or not?” Merritt’s cheeks warmed.
“If you have to be fake married to a guy and pretend to be in love in front of his family, you might as well enjoy yourself.”
Merritt groaned. “I hadn’t thought of that. We’re going to have to kiss again, aren’t we?”