Best Laid Plans: The Best Girls, #4

By Tamie Dearen

Once a player, always a player? "Not so," insists Charlie's stepdad, a former player himself.

Living in Colorado, Charlotte "Charlie" Best has denied having any feelings for Josh--a self-proclaimedreformed player--for the past two years. But seeing him again, now she's moved to New York City, forces her to admit the truth. She's in love with him. Too bad he's about to marry her friend, Olivia.

Will he ever get a break? Josh Branson has spent the last two years working to be the kind of man Charlie deserves. Now she's in town but instead of taking his time to win her over, he needs to get married as soon as possible. Surely his good friend Olivia will help him out.

Schemes fall apart as too many matchmakers--Charlie included--work at cross-purposes to bring Josh together with the woman they think he loves.

"If you like Hallmark movies, you'll love The Best Girls!" 

"All three books have been fantastic, but this one really had me on edge and yelling at Josh and Charlie to talk to each other for cryin' out loud!!!"

(Author Note: The chronological order of The Best Girls is 1-2-4-3.)

• Language: English
• Publisher: Tamie Dearen
• Release date: Aug 5, 2014
• ISBN: 9781501445392

Book preview

Prologue

JOSH WRAPPED HIS ARMS around Charlie in an attempt to soothe her, but she sobbed even harder. Why did he have to push her? He shouldn't have tried so hard. He shouldn't have asked her to consider the possibility of a relationship with him. At least not here, not now. Not at her sister's wedding, which should have been one of the happiest events of her life. Now she was crying and it was his fault.

Sh sh sh, he whispered in her ear as he lightly rubbed her back. It’s okay. It’s okay. She had good reason not to trust him. He had to prove himself first. And he hadn’t done that yet.

He led her back to her chair and handed her a clean napkin, kneeling down in front of her. He loved Charlie, loved holding her, but he couldn’t bear knowing he caused the tears that rolled down her face. He had to let her go, leave her alone.

Charlie. I’m not going to do this to you anymore. I love you, and I want to be with you. But I want you to be happy even more. I can’t stand that I made you cry. I’m really sorry. I won’t bother you anymore. But please... If you ever change your mind, please come find me.

He brushed his lips against hers, fighting with all his might to stop himself from drawing her back into his arms and crushing her against him. With tears stinging his eyes, he pulled back and walked away from the only woman he’d ever loved. But he would wait for her. He was patient. He was committed and determined. If he couldn’t have Charlie, he didn’t want anyone.

I love you, Charlie, he said again, though he knew she couldn’t hear him. I love you. And I’ll wait for you, as long as it takes.

Chapter One

CHARLIE’S STOMACH TWISTED in knots. She was so nervous about seeing Josh again. She hadn’t seen or spoken to him in almost two years, ever since that fateful conversation at her sister’s wedding. She knew the basics, since he was a close friend to her sister and brother-in-law, Emily and Spencer. And of course, he was also a good friend to Spencer’s sister, Grace, and her soon-to-be husband, Brad, as both he and Brad were emergency physicians at the same hospital. But everyone was careful not to mention Josh around her. And she was grateful. Wasn’t she?

Charlie. Grace seemed to be reading her mind. I’m sure you’re worried about seeing Josh. But I’m so happy you agreed to be a bridesmaid. Don’t worry—Josh isn’t paired with you or anything. He’s best man, so he’s matched up with Olivia.

I’m not the least bit worried, she lied, giving her petite friend a hug. Even with heels, Grace was at least four inches shorter than her three tall, lanky sisters, while both Charlie and Emily stood eye-to-eye with them. Charlie was almost five feet nine, and tonight she was sporting three-inch heels of her own. With her added height and her dark green dress, she felt like the Jolly Green Giant standing next to Grace.

I’m just excited about getting to be in the wedding. It’s about time y’all finally got hitched.

Oh, that’s so cute.

What?

"You said y’all. It’s adorable," Grace teased.

I can’t seem to kick my Texas accent, even though I haven’t lived there in over three years.

I like listening to your mom and your sister talking, too.

Speaking of Mom, they’re coming to the wedding for sure. Micah’s rash turned out to be no big thing. So Gram and Gus are watching him and Ellis during the wedding.

I wouldn’t have minded if she and Steven had brought the twins to the wedding—they’re so cute.

Mom said she wanted to enjoy the wedding instead of trying to keep up with those holy terrors. The boys have hit their terrible-twos early, I think.

I can’t believe Gram and Gus have the energy to take care of them. Aren’t they both in their nineties?

She nodded, feeling the same amazement she saw in Grace’s wide eyes. Yes, Gram’s almost ninety-nine, but you’d never know. Those two never sit still. I feel lazy when I’m around them.

We’re ready to start the rehearsal. Brad bent over to give Grace a quick kiss. Josh called, and he’s held up at work. So we’re going to start without him.

Charlie felt her tense muscles relax. She could put off seeing him for a little while longer. What would he look like? She found herself hoping he’d let himself go a little. No man deserved to look as good as he had, anyway. He was tall, with blond hair and green eyes. But he wasn’t a pretty guy. His face was strong. Chiseled. Masculine. And his body... Well, not that she’d actually seen his body, but she could see how his shoulders stretched and how his muscles rippled, even through his shirts. She’d seen how good he looked when they’d gone climbing together once at a gym. His leg muscles were amazing.  And she’d always been kind of a leg girl.

Charlie’s face heated at the memory of the night at the gym. At the memory of the kiss they’d shared at the end of the night. She’d never been kissed like that before, and it had ruined her for every other guy. When she’d returned to Colorado she’d dated a few guys, and she’d done her share of kissing. But after experiencing Josh, the other guys had seemed sort of... Boring. Dull. Lackluster. There was no thrill, no tingle, no spark. She went out with one extremely well-built handsome guy who was head-over-heels for her. She’d been so optimistic when they’d gone on their first, second and third dates. But when he’d kissed her, nothing had happened. Nothing. It was like kissing her brother.

After that, she’d given up. She hadn’t been on a date in over a year, and she’d decided she was through with dating altogether. She was obviously attracted physically to Josh, probably because of his skill. After all, he’d had plenty of practice. He was thirty-one, almost six years older than her, and he’d probably been out with about a hundred girls every year since he’d turned sixteen. Okay, that might be a slight exaggeration, but he was a real player. He was smart and handsome and sexy and experienced. And he knew it. At one point he’d pursued her, but she knew it didn’t really mean anything. She was evidently the first girl who’d ever demonstrated any resistance to his charms, so she presented a challenge. But it was like a game to him, and she wasn’t willing to play. She had no desire to be another notch on his belt.

It didn’t matter now. She’d moved on. She was completely over him. She was only nervous about seeing him because she was certain he’d moved on as well. She didn’t resent him for finding someone else. But he had boosted her ego a bit when he’d chased her, and she knew it was going to hurt when he snubbed her. He used to ask Emily about her all the time. But about a year ago, he’d quit asking. He never mentioned her name to anyone any more. Emily didn’t think he had a girlfriend, but Charlie knew better. A guy like Josh never went without female companionship.

The rest of the wedding party, except Josh, were standing in their places at the front of the little church. Grace’s three sisters—Olivia, Hannah, and Claire—along with Charlie and her sister, Emily, made up the bridesmaids. Grace’s brother, Spencer, was one of the groomsmen, along with Brad’s brother, Ben, and two men Charlie had never met. They’d already practiced walking down the aisle. Charlie berated herself for wearing heels. It was strange enough being in a dress since she’d always been a bit of a tomboy. But she wanted the extra height when she came face-to-face with Josh. She thought she’d feel confident and empowered if she were taller. Now she questioned her decision, wishing she’d worn some comfy flats.

From her position beside her, Emily asked, So your law school classes don’t start until January?

Yes, and I’ve got to take advantage of my free time until then. After school starts, I’ll be swamped all the time.

Steven wants to take everybody skiing at Christmas, said Emily. I can’t wait to see Micah and Ellis in their cute little ski suits! And he’s decided to rent this huge house, and he’s inviting Spencer’s sisters as well. It’ll be so much fun, with Grace and Brad being married and all.

I’m excited, too. I’ve been so jealous you had Grace, Olivia, Hannah, and Claire as your sisters now.

I love them, but not like I love you. You’re my one and only real sister.

You’ll have lots of opportunities to make up for neglecting me, now that I’m living in New York City. Charlie lifted her chin and gazed down her nose until she elicited a laugh and joined in. You know, I still feel a little bit guilty letting Steven pay for things like the ski trip. But Mom says I need to get over it, because it makes him happy.

It’s true. Emily clipped her head in a firm nod. I’ve never seen a guy with a more generous heart. And he’s so excited to finally have a family to share it with.

She chuckled to herself, remembering how Steven’s scheming grandmother had worked to match up Charlie and Emily’s mother, Anne, with her grandson, a life-long bachelor. No one suspected Gram had been working behind the scenes from day one to bring the Texas widow together with Steven Gherring, the billionaire owner of Gherring Inc. But even Gram got more than she bargained for when Anne became pregnant with twin boys shortly after their marriage.

Have you gotten settled into the apartment yet? Emily asked. I’m so excited to have you here—we’ve got to do stuff together.

I’ll feel like a third wheel around you and Spencer.

Are you complaining about being single? Because I’m sure Mom and Gram would be glad to help remedy the problem.

No, absolutely not. I like being single, and I don’t need a guy to take up my time when I’m in law school anyway.

Whatever you say. Emily cocked an eyebrow.

I’m serious. I really mean it.

Okay, okay. I believe you. You’re not interested in having a boyfriend right now. So... I guess that means you’re still not interested in Josh?

Definitely not.

Even if he’s changed a lot in the last two years?

Why are you’re asking me? Did he say something to you about me?

No way. He absolutely doesn’t talk about you.

Charlie swallowed a lump. It was a blessing he’d moved on. She’d had zero willpower left after he’d zapped her with his lips. It was a good thing she’d been a great actress two years ago, or there’s no telling what would have happened. Probably anything he wanted. She was lucky she’d escaped without regrets.

Of course, the reason he quit talking about you was because you broke his heart. Emily murmured the words from the corner of her mouth.

Are you taking his side? I didn’t break his heart. He barely knew me—and he was a huge player.

"Was is the operative word. He’s never been the same since he met you."

Well I never asked him to change for me.

I know, but you also never gave him a chance.

I can’t believe this. My own sister’s turned against me.

Emily looked as if Charlie had kicked a puppy. No, I haven’t. I love you, and I’m sorry. I shouldn’t have said anything. It’s too late for you and Josh, anyway. She hugged her. Please forget I said anything.

Charlie returned the embrace, her anger gone immediately. She’d never been able to stay mad longer than a few seconds. It’s okay. I just...

I know. I know how tenderhearted you are. You’d never hurt anyone on purpose, and it’s not your fault he fell for you. Don’t worry. I’m sure he’s completely over you by now.

Charlie plastered a smile on her face, but her heart felt like it was stuck in her throat. Who was she kidding? She wasn’t any more immune to Josh than she’d ever been. If talking about him made her feel like this, what would happen when she saw him? Please, please, please let him be ugly now!

JOSH STOOD INSIDE THE church foyer and peered through the small window, gazing down the aisle at the wedding party already standing in place for the rehearsal. His eyes found her immediately. He felt a huge rock in the pit of his stomach. After all this time, he’d hoped she wouldn’t look as beautiful as he remembered. But she did. He’d wanted to discover his memory of her was flawed, that he’d built her up in his mind. But if anything, she was more striking than he remembered.

Her long brown hair cascaded around her shoulders, almost to her waist, in soft curls, framing a face with the most exotic golden eyes he’d ever seen. She was tall and thin, but not fragile. She had the muscles of an outdoor fanatic. But she looked thinner than he remembered. Was she okay? Had she been neglecting herself because of the pressures of going to school while working to support herself? What was he thinking? She wasn’t his to worry about. And she never would be.

He cursed under his breath. He’d once thought he could win her love by becoming the kind of man she wanted, but after she’d remained aloof for such a long time, he’d finally given up. He’d changed from a swinging single guy, constantly sporting one beautiful girl after another, to a totally celibate man who never dated. He’d thrown himself into his work at the hospital. And in his spare time he volunteered at the free clinic, keeping such late hours he sometimes fell into bed exhausted without eating dinner. He woke early to work out every day without fail, determined to beat his body into submission. He hoped his mind would submit also, so he could forget Charlie Best had ever come into his life.

After he’d given up on her, he’d tried to date again, but he couldn’t find anyone who appealed to him. No matter how smart, talented, or attractive the girl, he couldn’t rake up one iota of interest. He’d had plenty of offers, though. It seemed every single girl he met wanted to date him, but they were only interested in his money and his title—Dr. Josh Branson. So he’d abandoned dating altogether, concentrating solely on his work. When he heard Charlie was moving to New York, he allowed himself a tiny spark of hope he could give it one more shot, despite the fact she’d totally rejected him for two years. But everything changed today.

Today he discovered he needed a wife, and he needed one fast. For once in his life he had to be totally self-sacrificing. He’d been thinking and agonizing since he received the news that morning, and he’d made a decision. So now, instead of vainly attempting yet again to start a relationship with Charlie Best, he had to marry someone else, right away. After considering all his alternatives, he came to the conclusion there was only one girl who would understand and agree to marry him in such a short time span—Olivia Marshall.

Chapter Two

BY THE TIME JOSH WALKED all the way down the aisle to take his place beside Brad, Charlie was feeling faint. Probably because she’d been holding her breath. But he didn’t even look at her. Not once. It gave her plenty of time to look him over, though. He looked amazing, of course, and he hadn’t let himself go at all. With the greenest eyes she’d ever seen and thick blond hair against tanned skin, combined with a hard body that stretched against his shirt, she couldn’t help staring at him.

Why had she turned him down? It was hard to remember when her heart was pounding in her ears. Oh, that’s right. He’s a player. And when he said he loved me, he hardly knew me. He couldn’t possibly have had real feelings for me. It was only a physical attraction. And physical attraction wasn’t enough to build a life-long relationship. But she had to admit one thing... The physical attraction was still there. At least it was still there for her, but evidently not for him.

Glad you finally decided to show up, teased Brad.

I came late on purpose—I didn’t want Grace to see how ugly you were compared to me and change her mind. Josh winked at her and whispered, It’s not too late. I’m still available.

Grace laughed as Brad elbowed his friend in the ribs. No, I’m happy with my choice. She stood on her toes to give Brad a kiss.

Hey. That part doesn’t come until the end of the ceremony, Olivia objected.

"And I don’t want to see my sister kissing a guy. Not ever." Spencer gave a wry grin.

You do realize we’re getting married? Right? asked Brad.

"Yes, but I don’t have to think about it. She’s my sister."

When the pastor finally regained control of the proceedings, they quickly finished the rehearsal and headed downtown for the rehearsal dinner. Charlie managed to avoid coming face-to-face with Josh the entire evening, although one time she thought she sensed his gaze. Soon the boys left together for a wild bachelor’s party, which was supposed to include video games, but no alcohol, since both Brad and Josh were on call at the hospital.

The bridesmaids had a slumber party without a lot of slumber. Charlie and Emily’s mom, Anne, had arranged for someone to come to their house to give all the girls manicures and pedicures. Then they watched episodes of Gilmore Girls and ate junk food and practiced line dancing until they finally succumbed to exhaustion. Charlie’s aching heart was much revived by the night of fun and companionship.

The wedding was a whirlwind of music and pictures and laughter. Grace kept gazing into Brad’s eyes, forgetting to listen to the preacher and having to be prodded to speak when it was her turn. Charlie tried to focus on the bride and groom, but from where she was standing, her best view was of Josh’s face. One time she glanced his direction and caught him staring, but he quickly averted his eyes. They hadn’t spoken to each other, but she knew it needed to happen. It was her responsibility. After all, she was the one who’d rejected him, even though she knew he’d only been infatuated with her. When he claimed to love her, he barely knew her.

She wanted to put off the confrontation with Josh as long as possible, especially since he wasn’t paying her the slightest amount of attention. She knew they weren’t right for each other in her head, but physically, she couldn’t help responding to him. He was ridiculously perfect, and some part of her evidently wished he were still attracted to her.

At the reception, Charlie was seated next to Emily and Spencer, with Josh at another table, between Olivia and Brad. Charlie couldn’t stop her gaze from wandering to his table. He was laughing and joking as usual, completely oblivious to her presence. That was what she’d expected, wasn’t it? He appeared to have moved on, except he didn’t bring a date to the wedding. That probably just meant he was still dating around.

... Right, Charlie? said Emily.

Right. She snapped her eyes back to her sister, wondering what on earth she’d just agreed to.

One corner of Emily’s mouth quirked up. So you agree with me?

Uhmm... yes, of course.

So good to know you’re volunteering to stay in and watch the twins while the rest of us go skiing.

No way, I didn’t agree to that!

I wonder what on earth could be so interesting at the table over there. Could it be Brad? Or Olivia? Or is it possible that J—

Shut up, Emily. She spoke between clenched teeth, feeling the blood rushing to her face.

I thought you said you were definitely not interested?

I did and I’m not. I was just... I was just looking at Olivia’s hairdo. It’s really cute.

Emily winked as she craned her neck to check out Olivia’s hair. I agree—it’s cute. But you can’t lie to me. She bit her lips, before continuing in a soft voice. You know, Charlie, you could swallow your pride and go talk to him. Y’all are going to run into each other all the time. We’re all friends.

I’m not in love with Josh. Charlie pouted her lips. I told you I’m not at all interested.

Emily’s eyes were wide. Wow—you just made a huge leap. I was only explaining why you need to be able to get along as friends. I didn’t say anything about love. She tilted her head. "Are you in love with him? Really?"

No, of course not. Charlie could feel her heart pounding against her chest wall.

Then it shouldn’t be difficult for you to walk over there and talk to him. We’ll all feel more comfortable if y’all aren’t awkward around each other. Emily gave her a smug grin and nodded her head toward Josh.

No problem. Charlie took a deep breath as she rose from her chair and marched toward his table with her arms crossed tight to hide her trembling hands. Alone at the table, Josh and Olivia were absorbed in conversation.

Hey. Charlie spoke with an awkward wave. She tucked her hand back into her folded arms and glued a smile in place.

Startled from their deep concentration, the pair jumped at the sound of her voice. Josh lifted an icy gaze toward her, and Charlie’s blood turned cold. With the onslaught of his frigid regard, she fought to keep herself from bolting.

Hello Charlie, he spoke through tight lips.

Her breath caught in her chest as the shock of his vehemence hit her. Not only was he totally over her—he hated her. She blinked rapidly to cover the tears that sprang to her eyes, jerking her face away. Oh, I see someone I need to catch. She pivoted toward the safety and privacy of the ladies’ room.

Wait, Charlie! called Olivia.

Back in a minute, she threw over her shoulder. Once inside the bathroom, the floodgates opened. Apparently, Josh detested her now, and she had no one to blame but herself. She was the one who’d refused his repeated overtures, not even allowing continued communication. But she hadn’t realized she’d wounded him enough to cause this level of animosity. Nonetheless, she deserved it. She needed to swallow her pride and make things right with Josh so her family and friends wouldn’t feel awkward when they were together. She worked to get her emotions in check—she couldn’t make a scene and ruin Grace’s wedding reception.

JOSH GROANED. HE’D hurt her feelings. He hadn’t meant to be so harsh, but he was having such a hard time hiding his feelings. He couldn’t let anyone know he still loved her, especially not now.

Okay Josh, said Olivia, What’s going on? What’s this important secret you have to talk to me about right now? And why did you just scare Charlie away?

Look Olivia. We get along well, don’t we? I mean, you’re a great nurse, and I try to treat you with respect, don’t I?

"Sure, Dr. Branson. He flinched at the sarcastic emphasis of her salutation. But so what?"

I need a wife, and I thought you might be willing to marry me. When her mouth dropped open and her face turned white, he hurried to explain. Just for a year, probably. And we could get an annulment—

Are you out of your mind? What are you talking about?

Shhhh! Please keep your voice down. You promised you’d keep this between us.

"That was before I knew you were insane," she hissed between her teeth.

There’s a logical explanation. He sighed and looked skyward, searching for words.

She leaned against the back of her chair with crossed arms. I can’t wait to hear this.

Did Grace tell you about my sister?

Her expression softened. The one who died in the car accident? I’m so sorry about that.

Thank you... I didn’t really know her, though. I only managed to locate her about a year ago.

You didn’t know each other?

He tried to keep the bitter note out of his voice. "I knew about her. My grandmother raised us until she passed away. I was nine and my sister was three. There were no relatives to take care of us, so we went into the foster system. He studied his fingers. My sister got adopted, but nobody wanted a rebellious nine-year-old boy. So I stayed in foster homes, and she had parents that moved her across the country."

I’m sorry. She placed her hand on his arm. And you only reconnected a year ago?

He shrugged. It was too late to change the past, although I wish I’d done things differently now. I resented her. I was jealous and hurt no one wanted me. I’m not proud of it, but I didn’t even try to find her until last year. It wasn’t that hard to do.

Okay, I get it. But what does this have to do with anything?

When my sister and her husband died, they had two kids. I’ve been looking into the option of adopting them. I was told his parents were going to raise the kids, which might’ve been great. But today I found out they only want to take the little girl, who’s two. The boy wasn’t their son’s kid. My sister had him when she was seventeen. That’s when her adoptive parents disowned her.

So what would happen to the boy?

He’s nine, just like I was. So nobody would take him.

So you want to get married so you can adopt him?

"No, I could adopt him without being married. I want to adopt both of them. I want him to grow up with his sister. And my lawyer told me there’s no way I’d win custody of the little girl over the grandparents if I’m not married."

Have you even met these kids?

He shrugged. Twice. Once when I met my sister, and once at the funeral. But when I make a commitment, I give everything. Trust me, I’ll love them with my whole heart. He leaned forward and took her hand between his. You wouldn’t have to do anything. I’ll do all the parenting. You’d have your own bedroom. And in exchange for doing this for me, I’ll pay your way to medical school.

Josh, you don’t know what you’re saying. That’s a lot of money. She frowned and pulled her hand away. And why don’t you marry someone else? I know of at least five nurses and two doctors who’d marry you tomorrow if you asked them.

But I’m not interested in anyone else.

So what? You’re not interested in me, either.

"But we’re good friends. I think we could get along well as roommates. And you wouldn’t be trying to turn it into something real."

Olivia shook her head. Okay, Josh. There’s a big elephant in the room we haven’t talked about. She chuckled. Actually, I think she’s in the bathroom. What about Charlie?

What about her? We haven’t even communicated in two years. It’s not like I’m still in love with her. I probably never was in love with her. If you ask her, she’ll tell you the same thing. She told me in no uncertain terms I wasn’t in love with her.

Olivia didn’t try to hide her skepticism. Have you considered since she’s moved to New York, you two might get back together? Why couldn’t you marry Charlie instead of me?

Do you honestly think after two years of shutting me out of her life completely, she’d agree to marry me by the first of February?

No, probably not. She drummed her fingers on the table. Josh, I still don’t think I can do this. And there’s a guy I kind of like.

He groaned. Fine. You were my best hope, but I’m going to marry someone by February. Which one of those nurses would you recommend?

Josh, that wasn’t a serious suggestion. You can’t really marry someone you don’t even know. And I hate to tell you, but this proposal you’re making isn’t very flattering. I mean, I love you like a brother, so it would be creepy if you acted romantically interested. But if you presented an offer like this to any other woman, she’d probably be offended.

He dropped his head into his hands and spoke in a muffled voice. Why do women have to be so difficult? It’s simply a business proposition. How can it be offensive?

Josh, I don’t know how you managed to be with so many girls without learning anything about them.

I didn’t need to learn anything about them. They just threw themselves at me... Until I met Charlie.

So you’re still in love with her?

Absolutely not. He used his strongest, resolved tone. I don’t feel anything for her anymore.

And that’s why you looked at her like you wanted to stab her with a knife?

I did not.

I’m pretty sure you made her cry.

He whispered an expletive. I hardly even spoke to her. I didn’t mean to hurt her. Why does everything with Charlie have to be so complicated? Look Olivia. Don’t say no. Just give it some thought. I’m going to do whatever it takes to get custody of my niece and nephew. It could be good for both of us. And no one would have to know.

There’s no way we could fool my sisters.

Why not? Why wouldn’t they believe we’d fallen for each other? Let’s make a deal. Just try it for a few weeks. You and I will pretend to be in love. If your sisters buy it, then you agree to marry me.

Josh, I don’t know.

Remember, you promised not to tell anyone. He leaned close to her and whispered, Come here. I need to tell you something.

What? She eyed him with obvious suspicion.

A deft turn of his head brought his lips to hers, as he slipped his hand behind her neck to prevent her retreat. When he broke the kiss, he spoke in her ear. Don’t make a face. It wasn’t that bad. Was it?

Leaning back, he cringed at the sight of Olivia’s reddened face and livid expression. Her whole body was shaking. "I want to slap you so badly. I did not agree to that. And yes, it felt like kissing Spencer."

Don’t tell me you love me like a brother. I’d rather you say, ‘The thought of touching you disgusts me!’ He chuckled.

Fine—the thought of touching you disgusts me. She squeezed the words between gritted teeth. "And how am I going to explain this to my sisters and Emily and Charlie?"

Just tell them we’re madly in love and we’re getting married. He grinned at her fury.

Emily almost spit out a mouthful of punch. Ohmygosh! She pulled on Spencer’s arm. Did you see that? Josh just kissed Olivia.

What? There’s no way! Spencer turned to frown at Olivia and Josh, whose heads were close in conversation.

No, I saw it happen, although she doesn’t look too happy about it. Maybe they’ve been secretly dating, and she didn’t want anyone to know.

Well, Josh isn’t going to date my sister behind my back. Spencer rose with a loud screech of his chair against the floor.

Wait Spencer, don’t make a scene. She grabbed his arm.

I’m not making a scene—Josh made the scene. I’m just clearing the air. Ripping his arm free, he advanced to their table and gripped Josh’s shoulder.

JOSH ATTEMPTED TO MAINTAIN his composure in spite of Spencer’s vice-like hold.

Hey, Josh, Spencer spoke with his nostrils flaring. You want to tell me what’s going on here with my sister?

Nothing, said Olivia.

Josh winced at his friend’s obvious irritation, but he knew he had to play out his scheme.

So the two of you were just sitting here doing nothing when you suddenly decided to kiss?

He... he was... Olivia stuttered.

"I’m in love with your