“Not in that way, no.” She smiled. “And you know it. Nathan and I have only ever been friends.”
He tipped his head to the side, noticing a pulse dancing on her throat. “How about us?” he asked. “Are we friends?”
/> She tapped her fingertips against her cheek. “That’s an interesting question.”
“Is that a no?” There was a tightness in his chest that he wasn’t expecting.
“Do you want me to be your friend?”
“I don’t know.” He smiled gently. “Maybe. I guess I don’t have that many around here. Hence why I asked you to bring my insulin up last week.”
She pulled her lip between her teeth, gazing at him intently. He could feel the pull between them again. He was getting used to it now. Had stopped fighting it. It was a battle he was never destined to win.
“Daniel? Becca?” His mother’s voice echoed from the hallway. “Where are you?”
He pulled his eyes from Becca’s. “In the library. We’re playing cards.”
Eliana pushed the door open, smiling when she saw them sitting at the old baize-topped card table. “How lovely,” she said. “Nobody’s used that table for years. Remember when you and Nathan used to play Snap on there?” She moved her attention to Becca. “I’m so glad you’re here. Do you have everything you need?” She took a breath. “Please tell me Daniel has at least showed you to your room.”
Becca’s eyes flickered, meeting his. “He’s been the consummate host.”
A smile ghosted his lips. “You’ve been an easy guest. Even if you do insist on trouncing me at poker.”
“Is that what you’re playing?” Eliana asked, walking into the library, looking elegantly put together.
“Your hair looks beautiful,” Becca said. “Have you had it colored?”
“Just a little tint.” Eliana touched the back of her head, her gorgeous white bob looking sleek beneath the library lights. “I was worried it would be too much.”
“Not at all. It’s perfect. And I love your dress. You always have the best style.”
“You should bring Becca home more often,” his mother said to Daniel. “She’s wonderful for my ego.”
“I don’t think I can afford the matchsticks,” Daniel said dryly.
“Well, I need to go get ready. I’m going to the Richardson’s for cocktails.” Eliana shot them a smile. “I’m so glad you’re both here. I’ll see you at the Jackson-Carter house at seven.”
“You’re not coming in the car with us?” Daniel asked.
“No, darling. I’ll send the driver back once I’m at the Richardson’s, they have a space for me in their car. You two will make a better entrance without me there.”
Becca looked from Eliana to Daniel, her expression neutral. He wondered how she felt about making an impression.
“It was funny, because I saw Janet Sutherland at the salon. She asked me about your new girlfriend.” Eliana’s brows knitted together. “I fudged an answer, but I’m not sure she bought it.”
Becca kicked him softly under the table with her bare foot. A teasing smile played around her lips.
“We’re friends,” she told Eliana. Another shot of warmth rushed through him.
“Okay. I guess that works.” She patted her hair again, walking over to kiss Daniel on the cheek. “Don’t forget to shave, darling.”
“Thanks, Mom. I don’t know how I’d adult without you.” His voice was deadpan.
Eliana rolled her eyes, looking over at Becca. “I hope he’s nicer to you than he is to his mother.”
Becca kicked him again. But he was ready for her this time. He caught her by the ankle, circling her soft skin with his fingers. Her eyes flashed as she tried to tug her leg back, to no avail.
Eliana raised an eyebrow but said nothing.