Page 72 of Double Booked

“That’s a great idea,” Eden said, shooting her sister a look of I told you so.

“I promised to be a good roommate,” Ty continued.

“Right. Like you were with me when we were teens,” Cole said.

“I’ve cleaned up my act since then,” Ty said, his eyes twinkling.

“If we do this, there will have to be some ground rules,” Hope stated.

“Oh boy. That sounds familiar,” Cole said, giving Eden a squeeze.

“Don’t worry. I won’t leave my underwear lying around,” Ty teased.

“Yes, this does sound familiar,” Eden said, grinning at Cole.

“And no strutting around half-naked,” Hope added.

“What about completely naked? Is that out too?” Ty joked.

Cole shook his head. “As entertaining as this conversation is, what do you say we go do something?”

“What do you have in mind?” Ty asked.

“I planned on taking Eden to Boulder today since she’s never been there. It’s a cool town, and I thought we could do some shopping and have lunch.”

“Sounds great,” Ty said.

“I’m in,” Hope said.

Eden smiled at Cole. “You didn’t mention that to me.”

“I was going to tell you over breakfast in bed, but I didn’t get a chance.”

“Sorry for interfering with your plans,” Hope said.

“Yeah, we can stay here if you two want to go,” Ty offered.

Eden exchanged a look with Cole and hoped he understood. While she loved being alone with him, she was also happy their family was here, or some of them, anyway. “You’re not interfering,” she said to Hope and Ty. “Let’s all go.”

“I’ll drive,” Cole said.

They all stood, and Ty and Hope went to get on their shoes and coats.

Eden held Cole back. Leaning in, she whispered, “Thank you.”

“No problem. Besides, I’ll have you all to myself later.”

His intention was clear, and a shiver ran down her spine. He leaned in and pressed a kiss to her lips. It was soft and fleeting, but no less exciting than the kisses he’d given her in private.

“I can’t wait,” she said.

Ty cleared his throat loudly. “Are you two lovebirds done yet?”

We’re just getting started, Eden thought as Cole took her hand and led her to the door.

Twenty-Four

Cole held Eden’s hand as the four of them strolled down Pearl Street in downtown Boulder. Ty and Hope walked slightly behind them and were talking a mile a minute.