Page 74 of If We Meet Again

Ashley interrupted, “Ignore my dad, he always gets the wrongimpression.”

“That would imply there was an impression to give?”

Ashley laughed. “No impression. You know how close we are. Maybe it’s wishful thinking.”

“From your dad’s point of view orMadison’s?”

“You’d have to ask them that.” Ashley smirked. “Anyway, how long have you and Candice been an item?”

“Aboutsix months.”

“Do you love her?” The question escaped Ashley’s lips before she had time to lessen the blow.

“Wow, straight tothe point.”

“Sorry, it’s none of my business, really.”

“Honestly? I’m not sure, I think I could one day.”

“Interesting.”

“What?”

“Nothing.”

“Don’t do that. You always do that.”

Ashley chuckled at the familiar way they conversed, as though no time at allhad passed.

“What’s funny?”

“I just like to see that look.” Ashley nodded.

“What look?”

“That look. You cock your head slightly and raise your eyebrow as though you’re really annoyed, but there’s always a hint of a smile buried in your lips. You can’t hide it, even though you try. It’s the look you give me whenever I purposefully try to wind you up. I remember it well.”

Megan lowered her head, trying to hide the obvious blushing.

“You think you’re so charming, don’t you? Easily making girls grin and blush with your laid-back, fascinating approach.”

“You think I’m fascinating?”

The song switched to ‘Back At One’ by Brian McKnight and all of a sudden Ashley became intensely aware of Megan’s body as it pressed against her own.

“I never said that.” Her words were now just above a whisper.

“I think you did. I lovethis song.”

“Me too.” Megan twined her arms around Ashley’s neck and leaned in closer. Their gaze remained locked. The soft silk of Megan’s dress moved from side to side with the rhythm of their bodies. There was lingering energy between them now. Ashley was fully aware of her heartbeat as it grew steadily with every motion. They were close enough that a kiss would’ve seemed inevitable. The intensity prompted such a display, but then without warning, Megan pulled away with a hint of regret in her parting smile as she left thedancefloor.

***

Outside, the moon began its slow rise. A warm summer breeze gently ruffled the trees. Ashley’s reflection could be seen in the pool. The lights from the clubhouse dimmed as a figure approached. A familiar scent of perfume filled the air, the breeze revealing her identity.

Megan stood beside Ashley now, a half-empty wine glass in her hand. The day was coming to a close, as good days often did.

The glare from the outdoor lighting cast a glow over Megan’s luminous skin; it shocked Ashley that she somehow got more beautiful as the hours passed by.