I didn’t like how it had seemed that Jenna was backed into a corner with Becky’s questioning look, and my mind reeled with questions as to why they both appeared so intense. By the time I got to Jenna’s room, she had locked herself in the bathroom. The first thought that came to my mind was that she either had the runs or food poisoning.

I knocked softly. “You okay in there?”

“I’m fine, Max. I just need to use the restroom.”

After I heard the toilet flush and the sound of the water from the sink being turned off, Jenna walked out the door. “Max, were you waiting for me by the door the whole time?” She had already changed into my white T-shirt that covered her cute, tight ass. I loved it when she wore it. It reminded me of the time when we were at the New York Fashion Show. I had never seen a woman get so red from drinking alcohol, and I almost took her to the hospital. It was the first time she’d worn my T-shirt to bed; the first time I had ever laid there watching a woman fall asleep. I knew back then that I was in trouble—I was falling fast for her—and here we were.

I followed behind her. “You know how I am. I don’t like you being sick, and I will be all over you.”

“You’re too good to me, Max.” Jenna smiled weakly and crawled into bed. With a soft sigh, she closed her eyes. “I’m so tired.” She paused. “I’ll be fine. Go back to work. Becky is home. She’ll check up on me.” Her words mumbled in my ear.

“Jenna, I don’t think you should go to Las Vegas. You might get worse.”

She reached for my arm and gripped it lightly. “I just need some sleep. Then I’ll be as good as new.”

“Maybe I should go with you, only to take care of you. I’ll stay out of the way.”

Jenna flashed her eyes opened with a soft giggle. “Don’t worry, Max. My heart belongs only to you, forever and ever.” She showed me the engagement ring on her finger. “See, no man will come close to me. It’s so big that no one can miss it. I’ll tell them that I’m taken by the most amazing man.”

I chuckled a little. “Yes, you tell them that, and tell them if they even lay a finger on you, I’ll hunt them down.” I sounded possessive, but Jenna knew I was kidding...somewhat.

Jenna smiled, then closed her eyes again. “Oh, Max. I’m the one who should worry about all of those women wanting to get into your pants.”

Caressing Jenna’s cheek, I murmured, “You never have to fear about that; I promise. I’ll call you later, babe.” After I planted a kiss on her lips, I closed the door behind me.

Matthew had gone to work and Becky was drinking coffee by the kitchen. “Don’t worry, Max. I love her, too. I’ll check up on her.”

Becky must have seen me staring at Jenna’s door. I debated whether to cancel the meeting. Knowing Matthew would go to work, I could have him go instead of me, but the design company was expecting me.

“Thank you. Make sure she gets lots of fluids, and make sure to call me if her condition gets worse...please,” I added. Glancing at my watch, I knew I had to go now. The traffic was going to be a killer.

Becky took a long sip. “I will. Who do you think looked after her when you weren’t around?” She winked to show she was teasing.

I chuckled lightly. She was right. “Thanks.”

Since Becky assured me she would keep her eyes on Jenna, I left knowing she was in good hands. Although I didn’t think it was a good idea for Jenna to go tonight, I understood. Hopefully, this nap would help her.

Chapter 2

Jenna

“You’re driving too slowly,” Becky snarled at Kate.

“Stop being a backseat driver,” Kate retorted, shifting her eyes to the speedometer. “I’m enjoying the ride.” Her words were smooth and slow. “I can’t help it. This is how I drive when Kristen is in the car with me.”

“I can’t be the backseat driver when I’m sitting in the front, and Kristen isn’t in the car with us,” Becky snorted.

Nicole twisted on her side. “Are we almost there yet?” She laughed out loud at her joke. Her laughter was contagious, and we joined in.

Kate cranked up the volume and bopped to the rhythm. “I can’t believe I’m free,” she belted, then her tone went down a notch. “I mean, I’ll miss Kristen, but this is the first time I’m going away. Just me, myself, and I...and of course with my besties.”

“You’re lucky you can trust your mother-in-law to watch Kristen,” Becky commented. “I have a friend who would never leave her son with her mother-in-law. I’m glad I don’t have to think about those issues.”

Becky looked over her shoulder to flash her dorky smile at Nicole and me.

“Don’t look at me,” Nicole said. “I don’t have to think of those issues. Keith and I are going to wait. If things go well, I might be able to be a stay-at-home mom.”

“There’s a plus and minus to that,” Kate threw in.

“True, but like I said, I don’t have to think about it.”

“You okay?” Becky asked, looking worried.

I nodded, but I wasn’t feeling well. In fact, the car ride was making me nauseous. Not wanting to ruin the fun, I pretended everything was fine. “That nap was all I needed.”

Becky wouldn’t stop staring, narrowing her eyes to analyze me. I didn’t think she believed me.

“Seriously. Stop looking at me.” I waved my hand, as if I could make her turn back around.