A Room for Four by Black Carmen

Author:Black, Carmen
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Scarlet Lantern Publishing
Published: 2023-09-08T00:00:00+00:00

Chapter 22

Rosie

"I've missed you, Viv," I said as we slipped into our usual booth at Cupid's Confections. The smell of fresh pastries and brewing coffee always filled the bakery, reminding me of the comforting routine Viv and I had carved out over the years.

"And I've missed you too, Rosie," she said with a soft smile, removing her vintage glasses and placing them on the table. "But we both know you've been too busy with the inn to spare any time for your best friend."

There was a gentle teasing tone in her voice, but I could see the concern in her eyes. "I know, and I'm sorry. This renovation project has just been a whirlwind," I replied, stirring my coffee absentmindedly.

She studied me for a moment, her bright blue eyes narrowing. "This is about more than just the inn, isn't it? What's really going on, Rosie?"

The question hung in the air, making me suddenly conscious of the growing weight on my chest. How could I explain the whirlpool of emotions inside me, the undeniable pull I felt towards Dylan, Logan, and Ryder?

"I...," I stammered, grasping for the right words. But before I could muster a response, Viv reached across the table, taking my hand in hers.

"Talk to me, Rosie. You've always been there for me, and I want to be there for you," she said earnestly. "Are you sure you're okay?"

The worry in her voice was touching. It was a testament to the deep friendship we shared, one that allowed us to weather any storm. But this was a tempest I was unsure of how to navigate. I had fallen for not one but three men - each different and equally irresistible in their own way.

I smiled at her, deciding to stick to safer ground. "I'm okay, Viv," I reassured her, squeezing her hand. "I've just got a lot on my plate right now."

Viv nodded, understanding as always. We spent the rest of the afternoon immersed in our pastries and laughter, leaving my complicated love life unspoken. I welcomed the distraction, enjoying the comforting normality of our time together.

In the middle of our banter, a shadow fell over our booth. Viv's laughter petered out as she turned to see who was behind us. Her sudden change in demeanor had me turning around too, and my eyes widened in surprise. There stood Landon Carter, the suave and ambitious financial advisor.

"Rosie," he greeted, a smirk tugging at his lips. He casually adjusted the cuffs of his expensive designer suit. "Vivienne."

"Landon," I replied, trying to keep my tone steady. His unexpected presence set my nerves on edge.

"To what do we owe the pleasure?" Viv jumped in, the note of sarcasm not lost on me. I sent her a quick glance of appreciation. She simply winked back, her protectiveness shining through.

"I'm back in town for a few days, thought I'd pay you ladies a visit," Landon replied, his piercing gaze lingering on me. His eyes traveled over to the inn's blueprints and sketches I'd carelessly left sprawled on the table.

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