Page 73 of Saving Soul

His dilated gaze penetrated mine. “I know how you feel.”

As our eyes spoke a million unsaid words, a baby’s scream tore through the crowd.

“Sounds like your nephew wants to go home.” I dropped my arms when I realized how close we were.

Adam reluctantly turned to watch his brother fussing over Harrison, while Josie gathered up their things. “Yep. He’s turned into a pumpkin alright.”

“We should go with them.”

Adam’s shoulders lowered as he ran his fingers through his hair. “I’ll get our coats.”

After I’d bid my farewells to Amy and Reed, I minded the stroller while Josie and Grayson said goodbye to the bride and groom.

The warmth of my shawl settled over my shoulders, and I glanced up to find Adam standing behind me. “Thanks.” I tried to wrap every inch of my bare skin before we left the glorious warmth of the industrial heaters.

“You’re going to freeze under that measly piece of material.”

Little did he know, that measly piece of material had cost him a thousand dollars, but he was right. It wasn’t enough.

He held up his coat. “Here.”

“And what’s going to keep you warm?”

“Whiskey. Come on, put it on.”

Caving easily, I slipped my arms into his winter coat and relished the instant warmth.

“Better?”

“Much. Thanks, Adam.”

Once Melanie gave Grayson an enduring embrace, she turned to us with Scott by her side. “Thanks for coming, Adam,” she said, hugging him. “You actually looked like you had fun tonight.”

A blush rose up his neck as he shoved his hands into his pockets. “I did, but you always know how to throw a good party.”

Melanie peeked my way. “I think it’s more about the company.” She smiled before wrapping her arms around me. “Anyone who can get Adam Harlow on the dance floor must be pretty special.”

“Alright, alright…” Adam grasped my elbow and directed me toward the door.

With a quick wave to Scott, I followed the Harlows to the waiting limo.

Grayson moved to the seat behind the driver with Harrison and Josie, while I stayed in the back beside the window. Adam sat on the sideways-facing seat, but directly in front of me, blocking my view of the rest of the cabin. I didn’t mind, though. Josie was already curling up with her head on Grayson’s lap, while Grayson was concentrating on keeping Harrison’s pacifier in place.

Although Adam and I were close enough to have a conversation, we remained quiet until Grayson’s head dipped forward.

“Thank you for coming tonight,” he said once certain his brother was asleep.

“Thank you for inviting me. Your friends are great.”

He leaned back in the chair, spreading his legs wider. “They’re Grayson’s friends.”

“So why were you invited to the wedding?”

His mouth opened, then closed, then opened again.

“You don’t give yourself enough credit,” I continued, tucking his jacket around my body a little tighter as I rested my head against the window. “You have a good heart, and they clearly see through your bullshit.”

“Do you?” His emotionless expression did nothing to hinder the longing energy rolling toward me.