Page 30 of Renegade
3
THE BIRTHDAY GIRL GETS WILD
CAROLINE
The servers rolled a cart into the private salon, the lit candles snagging Caroline’s attention.
“Where’s the birthday girl?” called out a waitstaff.
Caroline made her way over as her sister buzzed into the room.
“Where were you?” Caroline asked.
“Finalizing your birthday present,” Sydney replied.
Caroline held her gaze for an extra beat. “I can tell you’re up to something.”
Sydney entwined her arm around her sister’s. “It’s all good. Better than good, actually.”
Caroline admired the beautiful chocolate cake with the pink icing, then read the icing words.
We love you, Caroline!
Happy 30th!!!!
“I lovethis!” Caroline said.
“Make a wish,” Kevin said.
“Hmm,” Caroline said as her gaze floated over the group. “I don’t know?—”
Grey Stone walked in, his gaze locked on hers, and a whisper of a smile tugged on his luscious lips.
“Make it good, Austin,” Grey said.
Heat spread through her like an out-of-control wildfire. Seeing him again brought back all the feels she’d forced down, talked herself out of having, and ignored so she could do her job.
But… they weren’t working together any longer. The man who’d been off limits for the past three years was a free agent.
So am I.
As she stared into his eyes, she knewexactlywhat she wanted. Dragging her attention from his stunningly handsome face, she eyed the lit candles, closed her eyes, and made a wish.
I wish for him.
She opened her eyes, sucked in a breath, and blew, snuffing out the candles.
“Yayyyy!” her friends cheered.
Sydney hugged her. “Love you, sis.”
“Love you back, sissy.”
As the servers stepped in to plate the sweet treat, Caroline glanced toward the door, but Grey was gone.
Damn. So much for wishes coming true.
Coffee was poured, cake was consumed, and the conversations resumed until Sydney made an announcement. “I’m taking Caroline to Lost Souls. Who’s in?”
