Riverbend Gap by Denise Hunter

Author:Denise Hunter
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Thomas Nelson
Published: 2021-10-19T00:00:00+00:00

Gravel popped in Katie’s driveway, rattling her nerves. It didn’t take a genius to figure out what this impromptu visit was about. A moment later she opened the door as Avery ascended the porch steps.

Her friend’s tepid greeting was less than encouraging.

“Come on in.” She moved aside as Avery brushed past. Katie decided to cut to the chase. “I can guess why you’re here, but let me assure you, there’s nothing to worry about.”

“I know it’s none of my business, but I can’t seem to help myself.”

“Have a seat. Want something to drink?”

“No, I want you to put me out of my misery.” They settled on the sofa. “All I can think about is Gavin getting his heart broken again and you—my best friend—right in the middle of it all.”

“That’s the last thing I want.”

“I saw the look on your face, Katie. And the way Cooper was touching you. And in case I haven’t warned you, he has commitment issues.”

Katie resisted the urge to defend him. Maybe he did date around, but he was as authentic as any man she’d ever known. “I won’t deny that there’s a connection between Cooper and me. We’ve been through a couple of emotional events together.”

“Okay . . . That’s true enough. I can see where that might engender some kind of bond.”

“Exactly. But nothing’s going to happen between us.”

“So . . . are you saying you feel close to him but just as a brother?”

Katie opened her mouth to respond. But nothing came out. She didn’t think of him that way at all. But she couldn’t find the words to articulate it in a way that would reassure Avery.

The silence drew out between them, tension growing as it lengthened.

Avery’s face fell. “Oh boy.”

“No, there’s no ‘oh boy.’ Everything is fine. I care for Gavin, I really do. I would never betray him.” She meant that with everything in her. His expression tonight when he’d almost brought up Jesse had a powerful impact on her.

She’d deal with her feelings for Cooper. She’d avoid family gatherings awhile. Suffocate these futile feelings simmering for Cooper until there was nothing left but cold ash.

“It’s just that—he’s been through so much, Katie.”

“I know that. You don’t have to worry about this. Really.”

Avery held her gaze steadily for a long moment, then let out a breath. “Okay. I’m so relieved. Ever since I walked into that kitchen tonight, I’ve been worried sick our family was about to implode.”

“I would never do that. I love your family. And you have plenty on your plate right now without dreaming up concerns.”

“You’re right. Sorry. I should’ve trusted you more. I know you’d never cheat on Gavin or anyone else for that matter.”

Katie smiled but guilt pinched hard. Because even though she hadn’t actually cheated on Gavin, her mind had already gone places that made her unfaithful.

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