Total pages in book: 91
Estimated words: 87609 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 438(@200wpm)___ 350(@250wpm)___ 292(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 87609 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 438(@200wpm)___ 350(@250wpm)___ 292(@300wpm)
“What was their name?” asks Shane. “The decorator?”
“Rowan,” says Alistair.
Gael takes a seat with his own plate. “I remember Rowan. They were great. What happened between you two?”
“None of your business,” says Alistair.
At the same time as Shane says, “Didn’t they go back to their ex?”
“Their ex probably listened when they gave good advice. They probably now share a happy home that is filled with love while being both warm and welcoming. Don’t you wonder what that would be like?” Gael turns to me. “How’s your wish list going, Lilah?”
I swallow my food and take a sip of champagne to wash it down. “He told you about that too, huh?”
Alistair’s gaze holds a hint of confusion or worry. No idea which. “Should I not have? Lilah?”
Gael and Shane watch us with interest.
“It’s fine,” I say. “It wasn’t a secret. You’re just usually so closemouthed about things. But I’m happy to see you have friends that you talk to, and I’m happy to say I’m making progress on the list.”
“I know someone who does tandem paragliding,” says Gael. “If you’re interested, I could introduce you.”
There’s no time for me to get a word out. Nor is there any need, apparently.
“No,” says Alistair, his tone absolute. “She doesn’t feel the need to test gravity.”
“Fair enough,” answers Gael. “How do you feel about burlesque dancing?”
I get as far as opening my mouth this time. “I—”
“There’s no way she’s getting on a stage in her underwear.” Alistair shakes his head. “And she doesn’t want to be the mermaid in the tank at your friend’s bar either. So don’t even ask.”
“Oh, c’mon. Who doesn’t love a clamshell bra? They look so supportive!”
I take a moment to ponder the idea. “You know, Ali, your mom mentioned last night how liberating baring one’s breasts in public can be.”
“She’s met your mom?” Shane’s eyes are as wide as can be. “He introduced you to Lady Helena?”
Meanwhile, Alistair’s mouth opens, but he says nothing. He just stares at me. Then he finally comes out with “I can’t tell if you’re being serious or not.”
Shane snorts.
“If you want company in the tank, Lilah, I am there,” says Gael, giving me two thumbs up. “Being a merman always looked like fun to me. The outfits are so sparkly.”
“You would really like to do that?” asks Alistair, ignoring both of his friends. “The dancing and the swimming?”
I shrug. “I don’t know.”
“It’s your choice, of course. I shouldn’t have...”
“You shouldn’t have what?”
He gives me his most serious look and says, “I’m sure you’d be wonderful at either.”
“Thank you, Ali,” I say. “Though I think it’s more likely I’d fall off the stage or accidentally drown. Neither dancing nor staying underwater for prolonged periods are my strong suits. I’ll stick to the existing wish list for now.”
Those broad shoulders slump ever so slightly in obvious relief. Which is kind of hilarious.
“This is incredible.” Shane is texting once more. “It’s like he’s evolving and growing into a better boyfriend right before our eyes.”
“Except we’re not together,” I remind them. And myself.
“What else was on the list?” asks Gael, tapping a finger against his chin. “Oh. I know. How about the Pretty Woman moment? I know a costume designer who has great connections in the industry.”
“Back off, Gael,” says Alistair in a more subdued tone. “I’ll handle the Pretty Woman.”
The way my heart dies just a little at the words.
Gael does a dramatic sigh. “But—”
“I repeat, I have her very much in hand and do not need your help,” states Alistair.
“You have me very much in hand?” I ask with a curious sort of smile. “Is that so?”
“Lilah...” says Alistair, visibly flustered. Again. “You know what I mean.”
“Do I?”
His jaw shifts. “Yes.”
“We all know what you mean,” confirms Gael.
Shane nods. “That’s true. We do. Even if you don’t.”
“I mean she’s my friend and I’m taking care of it. All of it.”
My hopes do not plummet. They were never that high to begin with. There’s nothing like hanging out with an actual Prince Charming to teach you to keep your feet on the ground and your head out of the clouds.
Meanwhile, there is a definite ever so slightly evil twinkle in Gael’s eyes, and his smile is huge. Like he’s absolutely having the time of his life. “Alistair tells us you’re a librarian,” says Gael. “Any other hobbies or interests besides books?”
“Like anyone actually needs a hobby besides books.” I load my fork up with food. “But movies, music...those sorts of things.”
“Great,” he says with much enthusiasm. About ten times more than is strictly speaking necessary. And the way this annoys Alistair is clear to one and all. Though he can’t actually be jealous. This is just more of their competitive friend thing. No need to blow it out of proportion. “What’s your favorite movie, Lilah?”
“It’s hard to narrow it down to just one.”