Page 96 of Pleasure Island
“Out. I need to breathe.” I yanked the door open. Two security guards stood just outside. The sight of them only made me feel a little better, and I walked right past them while behind me, Mila called my name.
* * *
“You look pissed.”
Jake settled on the stool next to me at the bar and waved down the bartender. He ordered a beer and turned to face me. “What’s going on?”
I shook my head.
I didn’t want him or Michelle worrying about anything when their wedding was tomorrow. I guess a part of me understood Mila’s concern there, but I didn’t understand her overall lack of concern.
If something happened to her…
“Trouble in paradise?”
I glanced up at Jake.
He snorted. “Don’t look surprised. The only way you two could belesssubtle about what’s going on between you is if somebody found the two of you having a quickie poolside.” He cocked his head to the side. “But something’s got you down. Want to talk about it?”
I opened my mouth, then closed it. After a few more seconds, I said, “Some of it is Mila’s business. Not my place to discuss it.”
“Think that could be part of what’s bothering you?”
I looked at him, not following.
He shrugged. “You’re all tangled up in this girl. Think maybe part of the problem is because it’sherproblem…instead of a problem she wants to share with you?” Jake suggested.
“We’re not really even dating,” I said softly, looking back at the scotch I’d ordered. “There’s no reason for it to beourproblem.”
Tangled up in her, I thought. Yeah, that about summed it up.
And I had no idea how she felt about me.
That was a rub too.
I circled the heel of my hand over my heart before looking back at Jake.
“Have you told her how you feel?” he asked.
“I don’tknowhow I feel,” I admitted. “How can I tell her when I’m still trying to make sense of it myself?”
“How about I help you out?” Jake leaned in, bumping my shoulder with his. “I think the word you’re looking for isl-o-v-e.”
I shoved up, shaking my head. “We’re not even dating.”
“What’s that matter?” Jake asked easily. “You’ve clearly spent time together.” He gave me an eagle-eyed stare as he added, “Lots of personal quality time too.”
I flushed as I caught his meaning.
He laughed. “The two of you probably didn’t even wait an hour before hopping in the sack once you got here, kid.”
“I didn’t know she was here until I ran into her,” I said stiffly. Maybe I wasn’t so uncomfortable with sex now, but I sure as hell didn’t want to talk about it with my cousin.
“Fine.” He rolled his eyes. “An hour after yousaweach other, I bet the two of you were in bed.” He shook his head, one hand upheld. “I’m not asking for details or anything, but the two of you can’t keep your eyes or hands to yourselves. And I see the way you look at her. I know that look.”
Focusing on my drink once more, I turned the idea over in my head.
“How do you know when it’s love?” I asked quietly.
