He’s my husband keeps flashing in my head.
It feels strange and unreal. That’s why I’m fascinated.
He stirs and slowly opens his eyes—probably because he sensed my eyes—and I settle back in my seat, not wanting him to know I was inspecting him like a bug under a microscope.
My head goes back to the party at the brownstone. After the toasts, we spent at least two more hours there, mingling with the guests. I met great-uncles and great-aunts, cousins, and a few close business associates from Vale’s law firm. Mostly, I enjoyed talking to Vale. We sat on a couch, and I confided in him about my parents. He was sympathetic and kind.
I look out the window and see a quaint, picturesque town, most of the businesses closed. It’s nearly midnight.
Brody glances back at me. “You’ve been asleep for about two hours. We’re almost there.”
“Where is ‘there’？” I ask. Brody told us it was a beach house, but he wanted the rest to be a surprise. He arranged with Jane to pack a bag for me, and he packed Graham’s.
“We’re in Montauk,” Brody says as he makes a right onto a small gravel road. “I have a friend who owns a bungalow on a private beach. It’s perfect for the weekend, and you’ll be completely alone.” A gleam glows in his eyes as he glances back at me. “Doesn’t that sound idyllic?”
No. I really need to be back at work, but it would look suspicious if we didn’t do something to celebrate.
Graham grunts, stirring as he rubs his face and eyes. “Are we there yet?”
“Almost,” Brody says as he gets out to unlock a metal padlocked gate, then gets back in the car. He drives up to a pale-blue wooden gingerbread-type house with wind chimes hanging from the porch. It’s one story and quaint, but probably worth millions. A thick line of trees is nestled on either side of the home.
After we’ve parked, Brody unlocks the door to the house, then hands over the keys to Graham. “I’ve arranged for a town car to pick you guys up Sunday.”
Graham nods as Cas unloads the bags and carries them inside to the foyer.
The air smells like the sea, and I hear the distant screech of seagulls. A long exhale comes from my chest. It will be good to stare at the ocean and unwind.
I step inside the cottage and look around. It’s cozy, with a large area that features an eat-in kitchen and a living area with worn couches. Artwork of the sea decorates the wall. Huge windows face the Atlantic Ocean.
“There’s a hitch,” Brody murmurs as he flits around the room and lights a few candles, making Graham scowl. “There’s only one bedroom.”
Tension fills the room.
“I’ll take the couch,” Graham says roughly, and I sigh. He’ll be a pretzel on the couch.
“Whatever works,” Brody says airily. “The fridge and pantry are stocked for you. Enjoy, my little turtledoves.”
“Drive carefully,” Graham says. “It’s late.”
I watch as they hug each other tightly. Graham ruffles Brody’s hair. “Thanks for taking care of things.”
Brody pats his back. “Anything for you. Be good.” He slants a look at me and smiles.
After they leave, I grab my bag and head down the hall, checking for the bedroom. I find it, my eyes widening as I start.
“What is it?” Graham says from behind me, and I guess I must have made a sound.
“Um . . .”
Graham pushes past me and glares down at the peony petals shaped into a heart design on the bed. He shakes his head and pinches his brow. “Christ! I can see Brody dancing around as he arranged those petals just right.”
I look at him. “Wait, are you laughing?”
He glances up, eyes crinkling as his dimples pop. “Yeah. I mean, I’m sorry if it makes you uncomfortable, but it’s typical Brody. Here, let me.” He bends over and moves them into a pile, then picks them up and throws them in a trash can near the door.
I look at them in disappointment, but he doesn’t seem to notice.
“I’m going to find something to change into, then find us food,” he says. “I’ll use the bathroom down the hall.”
After he leaves, I open my bag. My mouth parts as I gape at the contents. “Graham!”
At the same time, he says. “Fuck!”
I come out into the hall, and he’s got his hands on his hips. “Okay. What did Jane pack for you?”
“A bikini and lacy lingerie. No clothes. Some lube. What did you get?”
He shoves his duffel at me, and I open it and take in the contents.