Page 37 of Peach Cobbler Confessions

My mouth opens and closes.

Okay, so he has a point.

“Well, I don’t need a new car. But if you insist, I’ll take one for a test drive.” I figure that way I can at least appease them. There’s no way I’m going home with a new car today.

A group of three men dressed in suits stand outside the entrance to the building, all with an eager look on their face. I’m sure they’re hoping we all came separately and that we’re each in the market for two cars apiece. I hate toying with people’s emotions, and for that reason, I’m thrilled Carlotta is going to make someone’s night.

Noah steps up to the gentlemen. “My mother here actually prefers to deal with women. Would you happen to have one on staff tonight?”

Carlotta leans in. “I only deal with women whose names begin with the letter Jade.”

I roll my eyes skyward.

And in what universe did I think this was a good idea?

The men have a good laugh on Carlotta’s behalf, and before we know it, Jade Archibald stands before us in a navy pinstriped suit. Her dark hair is pulled back into a knot at the base of her neck, and she’s wearing dark-rimmed glasses, giving her that naughty librarian vibe.

She takes us in as a whole before doing a double take over at Noah and Everett.

“Well, well, what can I do for the two of you?” Her eyes linger their way.

Technically, she’s seen them before, but that night was a bit of a chaotic mess that ended in murder, so I couldn’t really blame her if she couldn’t place us.

“Wait a minute.” She lifts a finger as her voice takes on a more serious tone. “Didn’t I meet you at that awards ceremony?”

Everett nods. “That’s right. I believe Dane introduced us.”

She bows her head a moment and takes a deep breath. “I’m sorry. It’s still so fresh.” She shakes her head over at us. “Dane and I—well, he was technically my ex, but we were so off and on again, I don’t think either of us knew where we stood that night. That’s exactly why I accepted his invitation. Anyway, that’s not why you’re here.” She offers a feeble smile.

Jade is pretty with petite features, tan skin, and a pert little nose.

Noah nods her way. “We’re sorry for your loss.”

She hikes a brow. “Apparently, you knew him, too.”

“Yes,” Everett says. “We went to high school with him many moons ago. He was a good guy. Always getting in over his head.”

She huffs out a laugh. “You can say that a million times over. So, who’s here for the new ride?”

Carlotta raises her hand straight up as if she was vying for teacher’s pet.

“I want something good looking, comfy, and full of guts in the event I need to make a quick getaway.”

Jade belts out another laugh. “Well, I certainly have plenty of those.”

Noah leans in and points my way. “She’s looking for a car, too.”

“Oh.” Jade’s eyes widen with delight. “Any requirements?”

“Comfortable.” I shrug. My Honda is plenty comfy, but I let that little detail slide for now.

“Very comfortable.” Everett dots a warm kiss on the top of my head. “She’s expecting.”

Good grief.

I scowl over at Carlotta as she titters to herself.

Jade’s mouth rounds out. “Then hands down, you have to take one of our new minivans for a ride. I know what you’re thinking, you’re not there yet. Some people feel very strongly against them. They don’t want to be the quintessential soccer mom right off the bat, but let me tell you, they’re more comfortable than almost any other vehicle on this lot—and they drive like a car. They’re just amazing. Before you reject the idea entirely, I just ask that the two of you take a test drive.”