Until Winter.

“I’m headed to brunch with my friends, dad. Is everything okay?”

“Of course. Your mother and I are staying at the beach house the next few days until the wedding. Hayden is attending an event with a friend tonight, so he won’t be here. We would love for you to join us for dinner. Unless you have plans…”

I look across the elevator at Winter. “Do we have anything going on tonight?”

I realize at that moment, the very act of asking her if we have plans is the most couple thing I’ve ever done. And may ever do. Ever.

“I don’t think so. Sondra wanted to spend some alone time with Preston since they haven’t had an evening alone alone in weeks. You’re totally free of your duties.” She half-smiles, probably thinking she’s losing me for the night.

“Great. We’ll be there,” I say, so effortlessly I almost surprise myself.

Winter’s eyebrows dip, curiosity clear in her expression.

“Oh, you’re bringing someone… Who will be joining us, Son?”

“Winter Sommers, the maid of honor. She’s… We’re…” Winter’s mouth falls open while I search deep inside my asshole for the right words. Words that don’t make me sound like a sloppy wet pussy because I already went down this path, and now I have to complete my journey. “Spending time together,” is what I settle on.

“Sweet Jesus,” my father chuckles.

Sweet Jesus is right. But spending the evening away from her isn’t sitting well with me.

“Midge, honey!” my father yells, “Aleck is bringing a date to dinner.”

Jesus fucking Christ. Is it too late to cancel?

“Oh, that’s wonderful,” I hear her say in the distance. “I’ll go to Jacque’s Bakery for those Éclairs he loves. What does she like? Ask him what she likes… What’s her name?”

I roll my eyes, feeling the dead stare of Winter’s frozen eyes carving into my face.

“Winter Sommers,” he repeats, muffled like he’s covering the receiver, then the line is clear again. “What does she like, Son?”

“Anything you’re already serving. No need to get elaborate. Listen,” I say as the elevator door dings and slides open. Winter steps out quickly and looks both ways, as if she’s trying to decide which direction to run in. I grab her hand and pull her to my side before she escapes me. “I have to go. Love you both. See you at six.” I hang up the phone before the onslaught of uncomfortable questions continues, kicking myself for not just declining the invitation.

I slip my phone into my pocket and lift my eyes to Winter’s, her big brown eyes searching my face for answers.

“We’re going to dinner at my folks’ tonight—”

“Aleck!”

“Winter,” I counter.

A smirk tugs at the side of my mouth—she’s scared and nervous. She’s so fucking adorable. In that moment, while Winter looks like she’s about to vomit all over my Valentino suede boots, all the self-doubt I felt is gone. As the bile, no doubt, rises in her throat, and for good reason, my chest swells with pride.