Chapter 27
MELLY
All of the James brothers fell for women in Hunter Valley.
Three of them settled into the town and got together frequently.
I had never been included before, but the text invitation I received earlier–after Daniel left me sweaty and sated in bed to get back to work post-lunch with the driveway crew–I figured was because Mallory and Bridget were nosy and wanted an update on my love life.
I had a lot to share. Holy shit did I have a lot to share.
At six, I stood on the front stoop of Bridget’s big house she shared with Maverick.
A dog barked and seconds later, the door opened.
“I knew it was you,” Bridget said, giving me a hug. “You’re always prompt. That’s why I like you so much. Mallory’s not–”
“I’m not what?” Mallory asked as she nudged Bridget aside. A black and white dog with short legs sniffed me and looked at Fred who I held tucked under my arm.
Mallory wore a black skirt and black tights with a red and white striped shirt as if she was part of a Where’s Waldo? book.
I thrust a bottle of wine at Bridget and Fred at Mallory. “Here.”
“It was dress as your favorite book character today at school,” Mallory explained without me asking, as if I wasn’t the first person to eye and question her wardrobe choice. So I had been right. “I like pajama day better.”
“Thanks,” Bridget said about the wine, but glanced around behind me. “Where’s Daniel?”
I frowned. Heat from inside hit my face and I could hear voices within.
“Um… I don’t know,” I replied, adjusting my purse on my shoulder. “His house?”
“He’s not with you?” Mallory asked, practically pouting, but sweetly petting Fred.
“Is he a requirement of being allowed in?”
“No,” Bridget said.
“Yes,” Mallory countered, giving her a look.
Bridget gave Mallory a look right back.
“No, but you should invite him. The guys are all here and I’m sure they want to meet him.”
I narrowed my eyes. “You mean you want to see him with me. See how he acts and all that.”
“That, too,” Mallory added.
“Will you let me inside at least to text him?”
Those were the magic words because they stepped back and I was allowed into the warmth.