Page 81 of Ruining His Smirk

“No. Never. When my family moved from London, we settled in New York. Since then, much of my life has been divided between the northern United States and traveling to and from Antarctica.”

“That’s going to be quite a shock for you,” Reed said. “Weather-wise.”

I turned toward Garrett and smiled. “Apparently, he has installed a new air conditioner unit specifically for me and my sensitive British arse.”

Garrett’s mouth twitched.

“We shall see how well I survive. But I have always been a tremendous admirer of cowboys, and I cannot wait to ride a horse.”

Viktor, the most energetic of the lot and a penguin researcher, narrowed his eyes at me. “Why do I feel there will be someone dressing as a cowboy?”

Heat climbed into my face.

Adrien’s eyes widened. “Oh. He’s not denying it.”

“Adrien, you should learn.” Viktor adopted the tone of a professor.

The poor guy blanched. “Ah… why? I don’t like cowboys.”

Daniel turned toward the other end of the couch. “And what about you, Dexter?”

Dexter shifted slightly. “I’m staying.”

“I didn’t know that.”

“Yeah.” Garrett’s gaze remained on his brother. “He made the decision yesterday. I understand why, but I’d be lying if I said I was okay with it.”

“I’m glad I’ll have your company.” Daniel smiled kindly at the younger Landry.

“I’m not.” Garrett grumped.

I nudged my shoulder against his. “Too bad you’re his brother and not his father.”

Dexter beamed at me with twinkling eyes while the rest teased my boyfriend.

“Anybody else staying back?” Daniel asked.

“Not this time, Doc. Adrien and I are going to trek across the United States,” Grant said. “We’re planning to make our way through as many national parks as we can.”

A chorus of approval rose around the group.

“That sounds incredible.”

“What an amazing idea.”

“You’ll have the best time.”

“And you guys, Viktor?” Daniel asked.

Viktor pointed a finger at the physician. “I’m leaving too. Since you betrayed me as my former roommate, this is my revenge. You will be left here all alone.”

Daniel merely shook his head and smiled in his mild-mannered way.

“So where are you planning to go?” Reed asked.

Viktor spread his hands. “We are not as organized as Adrien and Grant. We are simply going to pack up, and then we will see where we land next.”

Everyone laughed.