Page 15 of Filthy Rich Brother's Best Friends

“Nice to meet you, Gigi.” I shift the box in my arms. “I’m Jude.”

“Well, hi, Jude.” She drags her gaze over my chest. “You need help with those?”

“I’m good,” I say, still holding the box steady. “Just a few more things to go.”

She steps close enough that I can smell her perfume. It’s overwhelming, and it’s making me feel like I have to sneeze. Her fingertips graze my arm. “You sure? I’m stronger than I look.”

Before I answer, the front door swings open behind me.

“Do my eyes deceive me,” Reid calls out, “or did the goddess of the Pacific herself wander down our driveway?”

Gigi turns, delighted by the attention. “Well, someone knows how to make a girl feel welcome.”

Reid grins and leans in, offering his hand. “Reid. Also a neighbor. And available Thursday through Sunday.”

She giggles and gives his hand a slow shake. “Is that so?”

“Only if you promise to use your powers for good and not evil.”

Everything about this woman is curated—her laugh, her outfit, her makeup. Even her freckles look airbrushed. There’s nothing wrong with it if that’s what you’re into. But it all feels exhausting.

“Anyway,” she says. “My roommates and I are throwing something super casual tonight. A little welcome thing. Burgers, drinks, you know. We’d love for you to join us.”

“Wouldn’t miss it,” Reid says. “What time?”

“Seven,” she says. “Just bring your handsome selves. We’ve got everything else covered.”

I’m certain she does.

Reid winks at her. “We’ll be there with bells on.”

She turns to me one last time, smile stretched wide. “Hope to see you too.Jude.” She pokes my bicep with her perfectly manicured finger.

I nod. “Thanks for the invite.”

She disappears down the driveway, hips swaying so far with each step that I’m surprised she’s not throwing her spine out of alignment.

Reid whistles low under his breath. “She’s trouble.”

“She’s exhausting,” I mutter, setting the box down just inside the door.

“Yeah, but she’s hot.”

“And that’s all that really matters, right?” I say snidely.

Reid laughs. “You’re impossible.”

I shrug. “I just don’t trust people who wear perfume that’s stronger than their personality.”

“She was friendly.”

“She was performing.”

He snorts. “And yet, I didn’t see you running for the hills.”

“I was carrying boxes. Where was I supposed to go?”

“Yeah, yeah. Whatever.”