Page 44 of One Kind Soul

Slowly, Donovan released him. “Wow. Nicole has really captured your attention.”

“She’s the first woman I’ve felt a real connection to. Like ever.”

His brother grinned. “Well, okay then.” They got out of the truck and met at the hood. “Be ready to move fast if Tessa tries to kick you. She’s a dancer. Her kicks can seriously maim.”

“Thanks for the tip.”

Christian followed his brother into the house then rubbed Remi until the dog simmered down over his appearance. His hands were a little clammy, but most of him was optimistic about telling the truth about him and Nicole.

Until Nicole came out from the hallway and skidded to a stop.

“Hey,” he said. “Where’s Tessa?”

“In the bathroom. We’re on our way to the party.” Nicole looked from Christian to Donovan and back to Christian. “What’s going on? You guys look serious.”

“So . . . I forgot that this house has exterior security cameras,” he said quietly.

Nicole’s face immediately paled. “Cameras?” Her voice wavered.

“Yeah.” Donovan sat on the couch and patted the space beside him so Remi would settle next to him. “Cameras.”

“Oh my God.” She put her hands to her face then peeked through her fingers at Donovan. “So you saw . . . us.”

“Just out in the front.” Donovan pointed over his shoulder to the front door.

“We have to tell Tessa,” Christian said. “I can’t put my brother in this position of knowing about us and keeping it from his fiancée.”

Nicole’s shoulders sunk.

“On the plus side,” Christian said, “I can now tell you how beautiful you look in that dress in front of people.” And she did look like a model in a simple black dress that hugged those curves he loved to have his hands on. She hadn’t covered it with a long sweater or anything either so there was more to appreciate on display.

Nicole drew in a deep breath and let it gush out. “And I can tell you how handsome you look too.” She thrust a hand at him. “Look at those fancy jeans.”

Christian angled one leg out, showcasing the good blue denim. “Mountain View Pizza ain’t a formal place, but a bachelor party requires jeans without stains or holes.”

“Oh, hey, everybody.” Tessa came out into the living room. “I thought you men left.”

“We did,” Donovan said, “but Christian has something to tell you.” He pointed to Christian, but before Christian could say anything, Nicole turned toward Tessa and rested her hands on her best friend’s shoulders.

“I need to tell you something,” she said.

“I can do it.” Christian took a few steps forward, but Nicole held up her hand.

“No. It should be me. I think you wanted to tell. You were keeping it quiet because of me.”

“Keeping what quiet?” Tessa’s brows lowered.

“Tessa, my best friend, my sister,” Nicole started. “First I want to say that it’s not Christian’s fault, so don’t get mad at him.”

Tessa shot her gaze to Christian. “What did you do?”

“He just existed,” Nicole said with a little smile that instantly heated Christian. She focused on Tessa again. “Remember when you told me I had to put myself out there?”

“Yes,” Tessa said slowly.

“I did, and . . . well, I . . . Christian and I . . . we connected.”

Tessa glared at Christian, her hands immediately going to her hips. “I told you not to flirt with her. She was off limits.”