Page 104 of Sin With Me

The laugh that bubbles out of me has me quickly covering my mouth. “She’s a savage.”

"I wasn't even cryin'! Sweat got in my eyes."

"Oh my God, I'm dyin'." I take a drink before I choke on my food.

"She scares the shit outta me. And then she turns around and is all sweet to her little boyfriend."

"Well, of course." I snicker. "She's lived there since she was nine and was practically raised by the Hollises. She's gotta have thick skin to go through what she has in her short life, plus deal with four male cousins."

"I wondered about that...where are her parents?"

"Wilder didn't tell you?"

"No, he doesn't talk much. To me, at least."

"They died in a car accident. Dena and Garrett took her in."

"Oh damn. That's sad."

"I know. She's close to them and Gramma Grace. But I think she hides her pain from losin' them at such a young age."

"Which would be understandable. Guess that makes me a little less mad about how much she bosses me 'round."

I grin. "Maybe try talkin' to her about Raven and the baby. Find somethin' you can talk about that isn't work-related. I'm sure she'd love to hear about your sister and how brave she's been."

"Think so?"

"Yeah...doesn't hurt to try, at least."

"Alright, thanks. I will."

We finish our food and he walks me back to the store. I tell him about the honeymoon and that Wilder and I will be gone for a few days. Then, I promise to be better at staying in touch.

"Thanks for stoppin' in today. It was great catchin' up and seein' you."

He wraps me in a hug. "You too. Have a good rest of your day."

“Bye!” I wave once the door shuts.

"Who was that?" Amanda gushes as soon as he leaves.

"My friend, Jonah," I say, not making eye contact because I know what she's about to ask me next.

"Is Jonah single?"

"I fear you're not his type," I murmur, setting my purse in the backroom. "Sorry."

"What's that mean?"

I scratch my cheek, trying to come up with a quick lie. "He's into older women. That's why we've only stayed friends."

"Oh." She pouts, crossing her arms. "How old?"

"Like...at least fifty. I think his ex was fifty-two."

Her eyes widen and she drops her arms. "Oh. Never mind."

She spins on her heels and goes back into the front of the store.