“Finally,” I agreed.
“Unfortunately, I can’t stay the night since Maddox is terrified of me going into labor at any minute, but at least he let me out of the house.” She rolled her eyes with a smile.
“I’m so glad you could come,” I agreed, taking a look outside. I was surprised to find another bike at the curb next to Max’s. I was even more surprised that after closer inspection I realized it was a Black Rider saddled up next to him.
I knew in that moment that news of Thorn’s relationship to Cash had spread. Thorn wanted his family looked after just as much as Cash did. My heart swelled at the thought.
“Looks like you have more than your fair share of protection,” Francesca noted, following my line of sight.
“Yeah,” I answered softly, offering a wave to both men before shutting the door behind her.
“So, who’s up for a manicure?” Gracie asked with a grin, holding up what looked like a small arsenal of nail polish.
****
“I think she’ll sleep for a week.” I laughed as I returned to the living room after tucking Riley in later that night. “I didn’t get through one book before she was out, which is pretty much unheard of for my little staller,” I added.
“Manicures, a pizza party, and a Disney movie marathon will do that,” Wren agreed as I reclaimed my seat next to her and picked up my wineglass.
“You guys are amazing, thank you so much for coming,” I said sincerely. I didn’t know how I’d gotten so lucky to inherit such an amazing tribe of girlfriends but I wasn’t going to second-guess it.
“Are you kidding? I’d never miss an excuse for a slumber party.” Grace grinned. “The only thing missing are the makeovers.”
“We did manicures, that pretty much counts,” Francesca pointed out, laughing as Grace scoffed in mock outrage. “I know it doesn’t count,” Frannie stage-whispered to the room at large, eliciting laughter from all of us.
“Max still on deck with Gage?” Emmie asked, referring to the Black Rider who’d spent a large part of the evening on watch.
“Yeah.” Wren nodded, glancing at her phone, where I assumed Max had texted recently. “He wants me to head home with him when he swaps with Gunner.” She pouted. “Gunner’s planning on posting up inside,” she added, glancing at me.
“News to me,” I replied, though I wasn’t surprised Cash had put over-the-top measures in place while he was gone. “But it’s fine. I’d feel badly having him outside in the cold all night.” I shifted inquiring eyes to Emmie. “You still going to stay?”
Her cheeks flushed. “Of course, why wouldn’t I?”
“Oh, I don’t know, maybe because you do everything you can to avoid being within ten feet of the man?” Ginnie put in. “Are we ever going to talk about what the hell is going on there?”
“There isn’t anything going on,” Emmie defended before swallowing hard, as though debating whether or not to continue. “He doesn’t want there to be.” It was the first time I’d seen her show real vulnerability when it came to Gunner, and judging by the rest of the expressions in the room, it was a first for them too. “Can we not talk about this?” she asked quietly.
Ginnie reached over and squeezed her knee. “Of course, babe. Whatever you need. But I will say this and then we can move on. Whatever is going on or not going on, I can guarantee you that he only has eyes for you. However you decide to play that is up to you. And we’ll always be here for you.” I’d learned that fast about Ginnie. She was tough, but she also had the biggest heart, especially when it came to those she cared about.
Emmie nodded gratefully just as my phone pinged with a text from Cash. I sighed a breath of relief. I hadn’t heard from him all day, and though I didn’t expect him to check in often on a trip like this, I’d been waiting to hear something. The message was short and to the point, as his usually were.
Bunking down for the night. Everything is ok. Love to you and Ri.
I typed out a quick response.
Love you too. Be safe.
Always.
His response made me smile as I set my phone down.
“Everything okay?” Francesca asked quietly. After only knowing her for a few hours, it already felt like it had been far longer. She was an easy person to warm up to. It was obvious that she was incredibly perceptive and thoughtful, and I looked forward to getting to know her better. Not to mention getting my hands on those adorable twins of hers when they were born. I’d had babies on the brain more often lately.
I nodded. “I think so.”
“Did he say when he’d be home?” Wren wanted to know.
I shrugged. “Not sure. Hopefully tomorrow? The day after?” I hadn’t wanted to press him too hard, knowing he’d get back to us as soon as he possibly could.