Page 12 of Noel Secrets

Simon lifted an eyebrow. “I think Jayda can take care of herself, Mike. The woman’s an attorney.”

“Well, technically not yet,” Jayda said.

Simon continued as though she hadn’t spoken. “Or is it me you have an issue with, cuz?”

Michael glared at Simon. “I have an issue with people being taken advantage of.”

“Oh, please, Michael,” Jayda interrupted. “You act like you’re some crusader. You would have kicked me to the curb if Ginny had let you.”

“Yes, because you took advantage of my parents.”

As soon as the words were out of his mouth, Michael wished to suck them back in. The shock on Jayda’s face dulled to misty eyes.

“I think I need to…go lie down. Excuse me.” Jayda fumbled to open her door.

Michael touched her shoulder. “I’m sorry. That came out wrong.”

“Way to go, cousin,” Simon said. “And you accuse me of brewing up a disaster. I’d say you’ve got that covered all on your own.”

“Can we stay with you? Please, please, pleeease?” Timmy whined, his wide eyes flashing up at Jayda, begging.

Jayda bent low, laughing softly, brushing a strand of hair from her face. “I don’t think the conductor would approve of an all-night slumber party.”

“But you said we could,” Timmy insisted, a pout forming.

Michael caught the flicker of hesitation in Jayda’s eyes. She was cornered.

Andhehad caused her to be. Not Simon but him.

Simon chuckled with an ease Michael detested…and envied. “Come on, you two. How about some ice cream?” He bent down, his voice lowering to a teasing whisper. “Though I can’t say I blame you for wanting to hang out with Jayda.”

“Yay!” Tyler shouted and jumped into Simon’s arms.

The hall closed in on Michael, stealing his breath from his lungs. His plan to help Jayda had only made him the bad guy.

Timmy pulled Jayda’s hand. “Come with us for ice cream.”

Jayda pushed open the door to two bunks, a narrow fold-down seat, barely enough room for four people to stand without bumping shoulders.

“As yummy as that sounds, I think I’m going to rest for a little while. Simon, would you take the boys for their treat?”

“Absolutely,” Simon said. He ushered Jayda into her cabin, his hand grazing her back, and Michael fought the impulse to grab his cousin by the collar.

Jayda glanced around, smile brittle at the edges. “Cozy.”

“Claustrophobic,” Michael muttered.

“Homey,” Simon countered, throwing him a grin that was equal parts challenge and charm.

Michael snorted before he could stop himself.

Jayda turned his way, those sharp dark eyes narrowing on him. “What’s your problem?”

“My problem,” Michael said, crossing his arms, “is that I don’t buy this little act you’re putting on. You don’t fool me, Jayda. Something’s going on. I want to know who those men were. Tell me, and I’ll leave you alone.”

The twins went silent, sensing the shift. Even Simon’s smile dimmed, and his eyes narrowed at Michael.

Jayda’s mask snapped back into place. “It’s none of your business.”