“According to him, he plans to talk her into moving back to Atlanta with him at the end of the summer.”

“Wow. And wait a minute. What did you mean by ‘what we agreed to’?”

Serenity took a deep breath. She hadn’t planned to tell them everything, only she couldn’t stop the words from coming. “I told him we could go out sometimes until he leaves.”

Natasha chuckled. “I hate to tell you this, but if you keep hanging out with that man, it’s going to lead to more than just hanging out.” She made quote marks in the air.

“Tell me about it,” she muttered. Her body tingled with the remembrance of how his mouth and hands had set her body aflame earlier. The afternoon sun beating down on them had nothing on the heat Gabriel could produce in her.

A grin played around the corner of Dana’s mouth. “I was hoping you’d tell us about it. Obviously, Gabriel can do more than plan a good date.”

“He kissed me.”

“Well, that explains your confusion,” Natasha said with a little laugh. “Are you sure you’re going to be able to keep hanging out with him without falling for him?”

Dana crossed her arms. “Inquiring minds want to know.”

Serenity waved them off. “Of course. He agreed that we’d keep it light. No ties or commitments. Just a couple of friends enjoying each other’s company. He doesn’t want a relationship any more than I do.” She mentally shook her head as she recalled him sharing how his ex-girlfriend made a play for his best friend. She still couldn’t imagine why.

“Is he one of those commitment-phobic men?” Natasha asked with a raised eyebrow.

“No.” She hesitated. “I’m going to tell you something, but I will hurt the two of you if you breathe one word.”

Dana and Natasha stared eagerly.

“He had a bad breakup and isn’t willing to put his heart on the line. The woman came on to his best friend and cheated with two other men.” She wondered if it had been one of the two men she’d met. Gabriel hadn’t said, and Serenity hadn’t felt comfortable enough to ask.

Natasha shook her head with disgust. “Again, women always talking about not being able to find a good Black man, but then get one and do the stupid.”

“That’s why I know I can deal with our relationship staying this way.” Talking with her friends had helped her get her head on straight. Serenity knew the score. Anything they shared would be temporary, and she felt confident she could handle a short affair.

Chapter 12

Chapter 12