Page 30 of Worship

“Gorgeous, would you bring me a scotch?”

“Absolutely.”

Drew pushes to her tiptoes and kisses him. I look away, not wanting to intrude on their moment. I love how he loves my friend. You can feel it. He’s devoted to her.

“You want more wine?” she asks me, and I nod.

Drew walks inside the house, closing the door behind her, and I go back to clearing any dust off the table before we set it.

I’m lost in my thought when Dominic clears his throat. Looking up, I smile.

“You okay?” I laugh.

“Yeah, I want to say something, but I want to be sensitive. I can imagine you realize how difficult that can be for me.” His face is worried.

“Someone so direct?” I offer kindly.

He laughs and agrees.

“That’s one way to put it. Drew usually says ‘assholey.’”

I shake the rag in my hand and stop what I’m doing to give him my full attention.

“Just spit it out. I’m a big girl.”

He crosses his arms, staring down at me. “Okay.” He takes a breath and exhales heavily. “Luca doesn’t know that he’s in love with you.” My eyes grow wide with his words. “He doesn’t realize he’s fallen, but my brother looks at you like you’re the only person in the room.”

I look down at my hands because I know he’s seeing what I’m feeling. Luca makes me feel like I’m the only person in the room. “But G, his life is far more than just complicated,” Dom continues, “So, if you aren’t ready for the ride, jump off now. You wouldn’t be doing anything wrong by choosing yourself. I learned that from another equally strong woman we both know.”

I look over my shoulder at Drew, who’s laughing inside as she pours my wine. She walked away from Dom to make sure she was level-headed. And they were better for it. Maybe I should walk away before this becomes even more complicated.

“We’re just friends, Dom. He’s been there during some low points for me, and I’ve done the same for him. He doesn’t love me.”

My answer leaves a bitter taste in my mouth because I realize as I say it, I wish Luca did love me.

“I said what I needed to. And just so you know, I’m team Gretchen for life.” He grins.

I smile and look down, realizing I’m short a napkin, and then pat Dom on the shoulder. “Have you always been such a softie? I’m going to tell everyone unless you go and round up another napkin.”

“You got it. I have to protect my rep,” he answers, passing his wife in the doorway and grabbing his drink from her.

He dips his head again to kiss her forehead, and this time I stare at them, soaking in the beauty. Can I ever have that with Luca? My gaze drifts past my friend to where Luca is sitting inside, holding Ella. He looks at me and smiles. It’s so easy and genuine, and I’m immediately filled with hope.

“Do you want help?” Drew asks, now standing alone.

“Yes, that would be amazing, I need to check the food.”

I make my way to the kitchen as Drew finishes the table, and check on the sauce and the chicken parmesan. I place my oven mitts on the counter and walk around to Luca, holding out my arms for Ella. She’s the cutest version of Luca, all dark curls and beautiful hazel eyes. A little red bow set in place holding her hair off her forehead highlights her olive skin. She’s beautiful.

“Hello. Aren’t you a stunner.” I snuggle her in, inhaling the baby smell.

Ella giggles a sweet, baby laugh. So, I stick my nose in her neck again and again making her come undone with laughter. Dante is laughing next to me at the cuteness, and I hear Luca’s deep laugh join the chorus. Her joy is addictive.

“I think she likes you.” Luca’s voice calls my attention.

He takes a swig of his beer, staring at Ella and me.

“What’s not to like?”