Page 35 of Yours, Finally

"I'm not talking about romance." A light blush appeared on his cheeks. "But over the past few years I've seen you look at me with reservation, hold back your smiles and humor. I understand why you keep your distance—"

"You've kept your distance, too, Jake."

He dropped his head and let out a sigh. "I know. Being too close felt dangerous. I already snapped once. And now that we're going to spend more time together, I don't know what to expect."

"I don't know, either." I let out a big sigh. "But I guess we'll figure it out."

Chapter 12

Tres Amigos + Jake Chat Group

Gabe: Hey Max. Lina would like Eva's number. The gala is coming up and she and Vi want to plan something with your wife

Max: That's sweet. I will talk my wife into it. She's a bit reticent to such things, but I can talk her into most stuff

Gabe: lol I bet you can. I promise Lina and Vi are nice.

Max: I know they are. It's Eva who may be suspicious of such lovely and friendly folk. She was suspicious of me, remember?

Javier: This is how Eva will get a chance to know them. It'll be good

Max: In fact, we said we're going to the lake house after, didn't we? More bonding time is always good. Please confirm, we didn't quite set it in stone last time we talked about the gala

Gabe: I will need to double check Lina's and my calendar but we could probably go for the weekend

Javier: Jake, are you in?

Jake: Gala on Thursday, lake house on Friday to Sunday?

Max: that sounds excellent

Gabe: then you can help us plan my parents' party too

Javier: All right, we're on

Lina: Hey Eva! This is Lina and Vi. I think Max told you we wanted to connect?

Eva: He did. I also think he made it seem like I'm a bit of a hermit. I'm not, and I'm happy we're texting

Vi: The thing is, everyone looks a bit reserved compared to Max

Eva: I promise I'm not that bad

Vi: Oh, no! We know you're amazing. That's why we want to come up with a name for our chat group and invite you to go out with us when we meet for the gala

Lina: Do you have a dress? Vi and I want to go shopping together and thought you might join us

Eva: I would love that. Max was talking of going shopping with me but he can be in the dark this time. I'll go with you both

Vi: that's amazing! And are you coming to the lake house after the gala with the group? Lina just told me of the guys' plan

Eva: Max wouldn't miss it, and neither would I

Lina: I'm so excited for this

Vi: So am I

Jake