9. Raven
My body pulses with energy as we walk to Finn’s car. Nick Conners was on fire tonight. I’d only seen him in concert with Riser. On his own, he was so much more memorable. Though it might have more to do with the sexy man holding my hand as we walk down the street, than Nick Conners.
Leaning into Finn, I can’t help but smile at how much fun this evening has been.
Thank God, when Nick stopped by our table during one of his breaks, I didn’t say anything embarrassing.
After my initial small moment of internal fangirling on the dance floor, I was relieved to find he was just a normal guy, who happened to be fucking amazing at playing music.
I was captivated with each story he and the guys talked about.
At one point, Finn teased him about going on tour again, and Nick just grinned like he’d won the lottery when he explained that he’d only be home through the summer, due to his growing family.
Nick may command the stage like the sexy rock star he is, but the man melted my heart when he broke out his phone to show us pictures of his family.
The first was of his son, Jacob, and his very expecting wife Simone.
Jacob is the most adorable five- year-old ever and their daughter, Emery, is the spitting image of Nick, with his beautiful smile and eyes.
Apparently, they’re expecting number three in the next week or so, or Simone would’ve been here tonight.
“Now, it’s my turn to ask what’s going on in that head of yours?” Finn chuckles as he wraps an arm around me, pulling me close. “I’ve never known you to be so pensive.”
Inhaling deeply, I sigh. “Just thinking about Nick Conners.”
Finn stops and faces me with a mischievous grin and a raised brow. “Somethin’ I ought to worry about?”
As he waits for a response, he hits me with those penetrating blue eyes and brushes a strand of hair from my face.
Batting my hand at his shoulder, I laugh. “Ohmigod… No… Not like that, you dork. I just couldn’t believe he’s so down to earth and such a family guy. He’s performed in sold-out stadiums all around the world and yet he finds so much joy in being just a guy with his guitar .”
Yes, I use air quotes.
“It’s so surreal.” I shrug as if that will explain the thoughts swirling in my head.
“Don’t get me wrong, there are many big-name performers who need to build giant mansions just to let their ego remain in the same room as themselves, but Nick’s most certainly not one of them. In fact, none of Riser is.”
“That’s good to know. It would suck to think someone you idolized as a kid was nothing but a giant asshole in real life.
“Fame is fickle. Everyone handles it differently. I’ve been in the studio with all walks of life, trust me. If Ruby Frax takes off as well as I think, you have my full permission to smack the shit out of me if I ever become a self-absorbed asshat who acts better than he is.”
I feel my eyes roll before I give them permission as a small laugh escapes.
Like that will ever happen. The man is nowhere near the egomaniac level I’ve heard horror stories about from Sloane. But instead of complimenting him, I smirk. “What makes you so sure I’ll be around?”
“Well, your sister is marrying our lead singer. Where he goes, I’ll be right along with him. I’m sure our paths are bound to cross, and somebody’s gotta keep me in check.”
Rather than thinking about the ramifications of that truth bomb—Finn will always be around—I playfully tip onto my toes and wrap my arms around his neck. “Well, it’s probably important we get along then… you know… at least for the sake of appearances.”
His eyes darken as his tongue drags along his lower lip. “Oh, I’ll show you appearances, Raven… Trust me.”
Before I can fully inhale my next breath, his lips crash onto mine, and his arms wrap tightly around me. We’ve been playfully skirting around the edges of this kiss all night. But until this very moment, I had no idea how much I’ve needed this man’s lips upon mine.
Parting my lips, his tongue swoops in, deepening our kiss.
My belly flips as tingles shoot up my spine, and the energy between us makes my entire body hum.
I know I should hold back since this is only for the sake of appearances, but I can’t find it in myself to do so.
All that matters is how good it feels to be in Finn’s arms. The warmth of his skin on mine makes my thoughts disappear as my body responds to each and every move he makes, making me want more.
Digging my fingers into the hair at the base of his neck, I’m startled when a blaring horn bleats mere feet from us, causing us to abruptly break apart.
“Holy shit, what was that?” I pant wildly as I dart my eyes around for the danger.
Breathless, Finn grins as he runs a palm down his jaw. “I’d say some jack hole was jealous.”
Well, this has my attention.
“Of what?” I ask, clearly confused.
Leaning in, he kisses my temple. “Being lost in the moment with a beautiful girl.”
“Oh, geez,” I scoff at how easily that rolled off his lips. “Does that line really work for you?”
“Not a line, Raven. Let’s get you settled into the car. We’ve got a long drive ahead of us, and you’ve got an early morning with your sisters.”
I feel my mouth drop open as I silently process his words.
He takes my hand in his as we walk past a few more cars and stop in front of a black SUV. Instead of unlocking it, he turns to me with a grin. “Let me kiss you once more… for appearances and all… you never know who may be watching.”
The moment my head tips in his direction, his lips return to mine, and I kiss him for all I’m worth. If anyone’s watching, they’ll certainly get a show. But the real question I have for Finn—is this really just an act?
Walking into the kitchen, I’ve got one thing on my mind—coffee and lots of it.
My sisters and I have a full day with our final dress fittings and making decorations for Lanie’s reception.
The guys are tasked with making the arch for the ceremony and picking up a new grill for the rehearsal dinner since Dad insists on making his infamous ribs.
With less than a week to go until the wedding, it’s all hands-on deck until Lanie’s big day.
Relieved to find a full pot fully brewed, I reach for a mug from the cupboard and fill it to the brim.
Sliding it along the island, I place it in front of my favorite seat.
Not only does it have the best view of the ocean, but it’s where Nana always placed my food when she was cooking for us.
Not that we had official seating arrangements, but I think this location kept me busy, as it was closest to the fridge and pantry should anyone need anything.
Speaking of pantry, toast sounds good. Sludging over, I grab the bread and peanut butter, pop two slices into the toaster, and wait as my breakfast cooks. I have no idea how long it will be until my family comes down, but for now, I’ll just enjoy the calm before the chaos of the day begins.
When I turn around, there’s a dark figure standing merely inches away. I nearly jump out of my skin as my heart catches in my throat, and a strangled shrill escapes. The moment I recognize it’s only my dad, I reflexively bat at his chest. “Geez… make some noise like normal people!”
Chuckling, he pulls me into his arms. “Maybe you should be a little more aware of your surroundings, sweet girl, so I won’t get the drop on you.”
As my heart rate returns to normal, I snuggle into his infamous hug. It’s safe and warm and smells like home. “Not all of us are programed to function at the ass-crack of dawn, Dad. Some of us need coffee first. Then I can dish it back like you obviously deserve.”
I feel his laugh before hearing it. “Oh, Raven, I’m glad you think you can try.”
Yeah, I know I’ll never win against him. His years of training have made him stealthy. But he’s always fun to tease. “One day, Dad, I’ll get one over on you.”
Releasing me, he reaches for a mug of his own. “You always do keep me on my toes. In fact, I’m surprised to see you up this early after getting in so late.” Settling on the stool beside mine, he reaches for the bowl of fruit in the center.
Pulling one of his favorite lines, I shrug.
“Couldn’t waste the day.” Grabbing the toast, I quickly spread butter and peanut butter on it.
“Besides, my caffeine addiction takes priority if I’m forced to spend the day shopping and wedding prepping.
I love Lanie to the ends of the earth and wouldn’t miss this for the world, but you and I both know I need this if I’m expected to function today.
” To prove my point, I take a large gulp from my mug.
“How are you feelin’ about everything? I haven’t been able to check on you, and I’m certain that part is intentional on your behalf.”
Leave it to him to see through my crap. Yes, I’ve been busy, but I’ve purposely done so. I don’t like to burden my family with my problems. It’s just not who I am.
“I’m good, Dad. Between freelancing, my job at Pop’s, and helping Lanie with the wedding, I’m pretty busy.” I’m sure that’s not what he’s referring to, but nothing I said was a lie.
Raising a brow, I can tell Dad chooses his next words carefully. “I know this year was rough on you being at school on your own… and now that Sloane’s engaged, your culprit in crime isn’t around as much.”
“She’s been living out her dream. I couldn’t be happier for her. I love Jax, and he makes her happy.”
Again, not a lie. I miss her like hell, but it’s not like we’re connected at the hip. She’s always had her life, and I’ve had mine. Jax is perfect for her, even if he has her turning into a world-class traveler.
“What’s going on with this Finn?”
Gah, I should’ve known he’d find a way to bring him up. I mentally kick myself for not seeing this sooner.
Rolling my eyes, I sigh heavily. “Dad, you know I don’t do serious relationships.” Yeah, I’m sure that’s just what every dad wants to hear… not.
Before he can respond, I quickly point out, “Finn and I have only been out on a couple of dates.” Technically, again not a lie. “Please don’t make it out to be anything more than that. I need to be focusing on building my career, not getting serious with anyone.”
“I swear I had this same conversation with each of your sisters… and look where that’s got them?
” Grumbling, he shakes his head. “Two future sons-in-law in two years… that’s where it got me.
” In a high-pitched mocking tone, he adds, “ I’m focusing on my career .
” Just like my sisters would have said to him.
I almost laugh at his ridiculous tone… but know better .
“I swear… life was so much simpler when the four of you only wanted to play dress up and make-believe games with me, and I was the only prince you needed. Now, half of you are engaged… one of you getting married this week … and another… well, it’s only a matter of time.
” Returning his attention to me, he places a hand on mine.
“You… well…You’ve always kept guys at bay… but…”
“Daaaad…” I cut him off, not liking where this is going.
“I’m young and enjoying my life. I’m not ready for anything serious, and I don’t see that changing anytime soon.
” I wish I could just tell him the truth and ease his mind.
That things between Finn and me have an end date, and he has nothing to worry about.
But that would defeat the purpose of our entire arrangement.
With a pleading look, he asks, “Will you at least tell me when someone special comes into your life, so I know I should take things more seriously? I’ve never had to worry much about you, but I’m not ready to be blindsided either.”
On a heavy exhale, I squeeze his hand. “Trust me, Dad… if someone suddenly becomes important, it’ll blindside me, too. But I won’t need you to run them off; I’m capable of doing that all on my own.”
“Raven,” he warns, clearly not liking my negativity. “You can’t cut yourself short.”
“First, you don’t want me to date anyone seriously, and now you do. You’re like a yo-yo here, Dad. Make up your mind… wait… scratch that. Let’s just let me be young and have fun and not try making things more than they are. Deal?”
Shoulder checking me with a grin, he chuckles. “Deal.”