Page 57 of Driven to Love

Corey glanced around the room. He looked totally out of place in his head-to-toe Twins paraphernalia.

“Thanks, but I have company tonight.” She gestured toward Marti, who was now sitting at the counter, sipping her wine.

“Oh. She can come too. The guys will be there.” He wasn’t getting the hint.

The doorbell rang, and Laney walked in. “Sorry I’m late.”

“Cookies? Yes!” Marti snagged the container from her. “You’re my savior. The kids were in overdrive today.”

Laney eyed Addison before turning to Corey. “Are you joining us tonight?”

His gaze drifted to the cookie in Marti’s hand. He shrugged. “Can we turn on the game?”

Addison opened her mouth, but Laney cut her off. “Sure. Take off your pants, and I’ll go heat the wax.” She started toward the bathroom.

“Wax? What?” Wrinkles of doubt marked his painted face.

“It’s spa night. If you’re staying, you’re getting a bikini wax and brow tweeze. It only hurts for a second… or two.” Laney batted her big blue eyes at him.

Corey stepped back. “Thanks, but um. The guys are waiting for me. I’ll catch you later, Addison.” He flew out the door like his pants were on fire.

Silence hung in the room until Addison closed the door. A snicker slipped from Marti, and then the floodgates opened. The room erupted in laughter.

“That was a good one. I can’t believe I didn’t think of that.” Addison held a hand to her aching side.

“Thanks. I’m pretty proud of myself. One look at you and I could tell you didn’t want him here. Not tonight.” Laney sat on the stool next to Marti and snagged a cookie.

“Okay, we’re here. We had unexpected entertainment. Now, it’s time for you to spill.” Marti handed Addison a glass of wine.

“I don’t know where to start.” She rubbed her fingers on her temple.

“How about with the baseball game?” Laney gave her an encouraging look.

“Screw the game. I want to know about the rock through the window.” Marti stared at her, not blinking. Waiting.

Mr. Wilson. The window. “That’s what you meant when you said you heard about it at the Farm and Fleet.”

“Yeah. What else would I be talking about? Wait? There is something else. Okay, I need to top off my wine, then start from the beginning.” Marti grabbed the bottle and refilled all three glasses before nodding for Addison to continue.

Addison blew out a breath. Here goes. “You know I went to Davey’s game with Nash.”

“Yes. How was it?”

She thought for a second before answering. “Entertaining. They lost, but Davey had a good game… Nash kissed me.”

“And…?” Laney brightened.

“Woot! Woot!” Marti fist-bumped Laney.

“And it was… a surprise. Davey had a great play, and I think the kiss was to shut down the mom who kept hitting on Nash.”

“Oh, bummer,” Laney said.

“Yeah… not really.” Addison took a drink of her wine, fully avoiding eye contact.

“Addison?” Laney’s brow shot up.

Addison cleared her throat. “Anyway. After the game, we stopped by his parents’ house. They are so sweet, and… he… He’s such a good son.”