Page 147 of The Other Side

My eyes drag over the line of arched windows along the seafoam walls.

Seafoam.

The sight of the color taps on my heart. Every window is framed by a delicate mural of flowers—pastel yellows, pinks, and greens popping from the backdrop.

“I really tried to keep her off the guest list.”

I smirk at Jared as we station ourselves around a tall table. My hands dip into my pockets, and then I’m scanning my gaze between him and Debra. “In all seriousness, I really appreciate the both of you being here. It means a lot,” I say.

Jared shines a tight-lipped smile as he pats my shoulder once. “I’m really proud of you.”

I nod before Debra’s voice cuts in. “We wouldn’t have missed this. There’s no one more deserving.”

I flash a shallow grin her way, flinging my hand between them. “Go get drinks, I’m not having one. I’ll hold down the fort.”

Knowing I’m not going to budge, they slip away gratefully.

“Skirt steak?”

I spin around to a wait staff holding a circular tray of skirt steak skewers. “Thank you,” I say, retrieving a toothpick.

The tangy flavor of the marinade falls on my tongue when I chew the tender meat. My head dips as I swallow the bite, only to pop up when I hear a female voice.

“How’s the steak?”

My eyes land on those same blue eyes, abrupt disappointment cascading into my chest. Like an avalanche.

I force a lazy smile, nodding as I maneuver my tongue inside my mouth. When I’m presentable to talk, my eyes hold Gabriella’s. “Good,” I respond. “But I’d be lying if I said I didn’t feel like an ass for not getting you one while it was nearby.”

She showcases a smirk, wagging her head as she points over the table. “I was just passing by to meet my brother and his colleagues outside. No worries.”

My head turns to follow the direction of her gesture.

Rich-green shrubs are landscaped around the rear of the property. Lively flowers are planted around and in between. Bright pinks and yellows pierce through the forest shade, an ocean of color dragging me in a trance.

“I also promise I can hold a conversation better.”

I whip my attention to Gabriella when she sighs nervously. Her eyes are awkwardly averted, and then I’m shaking my head. “No, I’m sorry. I was ...” My voice tapers when I fully face her. “I was thrown off by the garden. I didn’t know there was a garden here.”

As soon as the explanation leaves me, I realize how fucking stupid it sounds without context.

“The garden?” she asks.

My palm rubs the back of my neck as I wince. “Yeah, I’m a great reader, but being coherent in a conversation is not my forte apparently.”

Another chuckle falls from her. “Did you want to go out to the garden? You’re more than welcome to join us.”

I playfully squint my eyes in her direction. “Really?” I shoot back. “Even though I’m making a total of zero sense right now?”

Gabriella pops a shoulder, the crook of her mouth tipping up. “Hey, you’re keeping me intrigued.”

A smile flashes across my lips. “Fair enough, but I’ll sit this one out for now.”

She gracefully exits, her jasmine scent drifting in the air as she strolls off. A minute later, Debra and Jared return, conversation ensuing among the three of us.

Every so often, my head is tugged around the room as I draw a sip of water. I told myself that I wouldn’t make this about her tonight and I would enjoy this moment for me. More than that, Callie never actually gave me a definitive answer as to whether she was coming or not. I included her name on the guest list in case, but my hope dwindles every time my eyes fling to the entryway of the cocktail room.

“You look like something is on your mind.”