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 beingjust 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 sisterismarrying 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 theisland, 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.”
