Page 26 of Better Together

Alexis interlaced her arm with Pete’s and cuddled into his leather jacket, which Zeke didn’t like. He wanted to take her back to his place and show her what she meant to him. Instead, he followed close behind and faked a smile when needed.

Zeke observed how friendly Alexis and Pete were. It was as if Pete were her favorite candy she couldn’t get enough of. He wondered if there had ever been anything sexual between them, or if she contained Pete to a box like she had been doing with him.

“People around here only know me as Alexis. So, cool it with ‘General.’ I don’t need a nickname.”

“Yes, ma’am.”

Zeke didn’t know what to think of Pete. He wanted to like the guy, but he didn’t like how close he and Alexis were. Hell. He was jealous. Alexis always made a point not to date her employees—which didn’t sit well, at least not anymore, because he was her employee. He’d make it his mission to find out if she and Pete were more than friends. Working closely with Alexis the past few weeks had him wanting more. He wanted to use his hands to explore every inch of her body. He wanted to kiss her minty breath and inhale her citrusy scent. To be her favorite candy to indulge in.

The ongoing banter between Pete and Alexis interrupted his thoughts. They stepped in line at the Smoky Bob’s Barbeque food truck. “You guys order, my treat,” Zeke said, trying to take the upper hand.

“You don’t have to do that, Reynolds,” Pete countered.

“You drove all the way here to help Alexis. We really appreciate it.”

Alexis confirmed, “We do, Pete. We appreciate you coming on such short notice. We’ve been running between jobsites for the last two weeks. And Zeke, you’re not buying. This meal is on me. Order as much as you like.” They approached the window and ordered their meals. Zeke chose two mouthwatering brisket sandwiches with crispy onions, and Pete ordered the brisket tacos. Zeke smiled when Alexis ordered the loaded brisket salad; she always made sure to eat her vegetables.

Alexis paid, slipped a tip into the jar, and said, “Let’s head lakeside. Maggie texted and said they have a table saved.”

“I heard she got married,” Pete said before taking a bite of his taco.

Zeke and Alexis nodded.

“He’s a former SEAL, so no flirting, Pete. I don’t want to see him kick your ass,” Alexis admonished.

Pete faked innocence. “Who, me?”

“Between you and Zeke, I don’t know who’d get the biggest flirt award.” Alexis caught sight of the Reynolds family; they’d pushed two picnic tables together. She nodded to them.

A joyful scream filled the evening festivities as Maggie bolted out of her seat when she saw Pete.

“This should be good.” Zeke smirked.

Alexis grinned at Maggie’s exuberance. “Just so you know, there wasn’t ever anything between Pete and your sister.”

“Good to know.” Zeke felt a little better but noticed Alexis didn’t mention if there had ever been anything between her and Pete. Owen was mid-chew when his wife bolted from her seat and ran to Pete, wrapping him in a hug. Zeke smiled because his own face had probably held the same stunned expression as Owen’s when Alexis ran into Pete’s arms moments ago. Except Maggie was Owen’s wife, and Zeke didn’t have any claim on Alexis. The queasy feeling in his gut about possibly losing Alexis to someone else had him rethinking when he’d finally voice his feelings for her.

Zeke walked over to his brother-in-law and placed a hand on his shoulder. “They worked together in the cities. Nothing more. She’s just happy to see him.”

“What do you know about him?” Owen asked as he wiped his face and stood.

“No more than what Alexis shared minutes ago.”

“Hmm.”

Maggie walked Pete over and introduced him to her husband. “Owen, this is my friend Pete Larson. Pete worked with Alexis on several jobs and helped us gut some historic homes. Pete, this is the love of my life, my husband, Owen Jacobs.” Maggie beamed.

Pete set his food on the table and shook Owen’s hand. “Nice to meet you.”

“You too.” Owen signaled to the table. “Join us.”

Zeke settled alongside Alexis and across from Paige and Ethan. Alexis introduced Pete to everyone and announced he’d be taking over the renovation of the church / coffee shop’s living quarters for the new owner. Zeke noticed how Alexis’s shoulders had relaxed. If Pete could help Alexis breathe easier and get more sleep, he’d welcome his help and play nice. For now.

They’d all eaten and moved to one of several fire pits to enjoy s’mores. Alexis stood and stretched after stuffing herself until she couldn’t breathe. “Pete, do you have plans tomorrow? I’d like to meet with you at the jobsite and give you the rundown.”

“Sounds like a plan, Gen—Alexis. Have you gotten your bike restored yet? I thought before storing mine for the winter, we could cruise around the lakes, head farther north maybe, take a short road trip. What do you think?”

Alexis, giddy at the idea of being on a bike again, jumped at the chance. “Haven’t had time, but I’d love to ride. It’s been too long. So yes, but on one condition: I get to sleep in.”