Page 28 of Trustfall
“Is ridiculously sexy?” She smirked with a smile that lit up her entire expression.
“Yes, exactly. It’s so manly and . . . wow, I’m a little embarrassed to say,” I snickered under my breath, “this kitchen is a turn-on.”
The cabinetry featured a sleek matte black finish with crisp lines and no handles, while the flooring and walls—including the backsplash and sides of the range hood—were embellished with walnut-stained tongue-and-groove paneling. It had a modern, unique look yet an unexpectedly cozy vibe.
“Trust me, I know the feeling.”
“I’m sure you do.” I grinned as a subtle blush dusted across her cheeks. “On a personal note, how are you doing after everything?”
Experiencing a near-death situation was not something that people typically moved past quickly. It could weigh heavily on one’s emotions or be a poignant reminder of life’s fragility.
“For the most part, I’m good; it’s still a lot to wrap my head around, is all.”
“Have you spoken to anyone?”
“Just Boden, but I’ve started writing and find it quite therapeutic.”
“Oh, that’s amazing! Writing helps unload your thoughts, so they’re not all bottled up inside.”
“Sort of. That was my intention when I began; as I continued writing my notes, a story started to take shape in my head, and now it’s taking the form of something I never dreamed of.”
“Like a novel?”
“I believe it certainly has the potential to be one, even though some days it feels more like sticky notes on the mirror.”
“Lakelyn, you’re writing a book! That is seriously so exciting.”
“I’m committed, even though I’m not sure it will ever see the light of day.”
“And that’s all that matters; if writing is bringing you joy and it’s helping you process your feelings, then I say go for it. What does Boden think?”
“He’s my number one supporter.”
“Amazing. As he should be, and you can count me as your second because I feel this is just the beginning of a beautiful friendship.”
“I’d like that. Thank you, Arizona.”
“There you ladies are.” Boden’s voice drew our attention to the back doors, where he’d just entered the house from the backyard with his and Lakelyn’s new little Labradoodle Sheba, eagerly trying to keep pace with his owner’s long strides. “Did you ladies coordinate your outfits tonight?” he asked, as his eyes bounced back and forth between us.
“No, just a funny coincidence.” I laughed, totally unbothered by the fact that we were twinning with our outfits.
“So glad you could make it, Arizona.” He wrapped his arms around Lakelyn’s waist from behind. “We’re all set up in the backyard and ready for our first annual game night to commence.”
“Thank you for the invite; I was just getting to know your lovely fiancée here.”
“I’m one lucky guy, that’s for damned sure.” He peppered her cheek with kisses enthusiastically.
“I’m so happy for you both, truly. Have you discussed a potential time of year or date for the wedding?”
“We’re thinking next summer before we break ground on our forever home.”
“That sounds incredible; please let me know if there’s anything I can do to help.”
“I might just take you up on that.” Lakelyn offered me an appreciative smile before we all headed outside after coordinating a time for me to pop over and photograph Sheba.
“Ford just texted.” Boden interrupted the laughter from the guys and Brooke, causing their heads to swivel in our direction. “Maxim started throwing up half an hour ago; he suspects it’s the stomach bug going around, so, unfortunately, he won’t be able to make it tonight.”
“I guess that means one team will be short a player unless—” Jameson started to question.
