Page 95 of Avenging Azalea

“Steph!” I glanced around, unable to believe she had just told me to find a way to get Titus to murder someone so we could be together. Jesus. “I can’t do that. Have you lost your mind?”

“Oh my god, you two would drive a saint to drink. He’s mafia, I’m sure he has buried more than one body in a desert. Listen to me, if you can tear him away from her nasty ass claws, then do it and don’t feel bad. He doesn’t even want to marry her. It’s so obvious. You’re just giving him a shove, or her a shove, into the dark ocean to be eaten alive.” My mouth fell open. “Joke.” She rolled her eyes. “Maybe.”

“I’m not going to dignify that entire idea with a response. You really think I could live with myself? Besides, he told me that it was complicated and that he had to marry her. I’ll be honest, I think he would cancel the wedding if he could. He hasn’t said it, but…I feel it. I know him. Titus is far too honest and honorable to marry someone he doesn’t want to unless it’s for a good reason. So, if I’m right, then tell me what sleeping with him will accomplish other than making it harder to watch him marry that⁠—”

“Hoe.”

I smiled. “Yes, hoe.”

“Well…he’d get you off, so there is that. It’s a hell of a good reason any day if you ask me,” Steph said, and held out her hand, inspecting her perfect French manicure for the millionth time.

“Yes, I’m sure he would. But again…it won’t save my heart and I don’t need any more pain.”

Steph sighed.

“Fine, don’t fuck him and continue this weird dance you’re doing over and over. You think that’s any better? Because it’s blatantly obvious that you both want one another.” I glared at her. “Seriously though…I get not wanting to get hurt. Maybe even a little more than I did a few weeks back.”

“Really? Who are we talking about? You haven’t mentioned anyone.” Only mildly annoyed by her secrecy, I shifted closer for her to tell me.

Steph blushed, her cheeks flaming bright red. I’d never seen her like this.

“Do you remember that hot bouncer from the club? You know the one that stayed with us while Titus was on his way.”

“Oliver? Sure, he’s at the house three times a week now working for Titus.” She just smiled at me. “No…really? Oh my god. He’s so cute and nice. Totally not your type,” I said, teasing her.

“Bitch…” Steph burst out laughing. “I know, I normally love the bad boy and no strings. But there is just something about him that I can’t explain.” She dropped her voice, leaning in closer. “And the things he can do with his hips. Let’s just say he knows how to use what he’s working with, and…he loves to do it in the morning and then makes me breakfast while I’m still recuperating. No joke, like Eggs Benedict and fancy crepes. Who is this guy?”

I grabbed her hands and squealed, not caring if we drew looks from the surrounding tables.

“I’m so stinking happy for you.”

Steph blushed again.

“Me too, and it’s so strange. I honestly figured I’d always be single. I just never saw myself settling down. But Oliver…”

“There is just something you can’t explain. It’s almost magical,” I said, sighing.

We burst out laughing. Then, Steph sobered and linked our fingers together.

“You have to do what feels right in your heart. If moving out is the answer, then I’ll support you. But be sure you’re ready to close that door.”

“I waver, but…I think it’s time, Steph. I’ll be honest, I’m at this weird point emotionally where I need Titus to fight for me if I’m who he wants.”

Steph smiled, which I didn’t expect. She practically dragged me out of my chair to hug me.

“Forget what I said. That has to be the bravest thing you’ve ever said to me. You’re right, you’re worth fighting for. Titus needs to kick Vera to the curb, and then, win your heart back.” She held my shoulders. “You can still move into my pool house. The offer stands.”

“I would, but…if I’m doing this, really doing this, then I need to be on my own for a while. I went from a horrible home life to Titus. It’s time I took care of myself.”

“I get that. But just know that you can change your mind at any time.”

“I know. Thank you.” We smiled at one another, and I felt the connection that had always been between us. A girl power sensation and a bond that made Steph feel more like a sister than a friend. “Want to split dessert?”

“Do grapes grow on trees,” Steph asked.

“Technically, I think they grow on vines.”

“Oh, for god’s sake,” Steph muttered, but laughed. “Order whatever you want, I’m going to use the washroom.”