I just smiled, keeping my secrets close. I took a slow, deliberate sip of my coffee, a sudden sting of yearning that threatened to claw its way up my throat.
Rick blinked, a boyish charm lighting up his face, then he smiled warmly. “Damn.”
I grinned at him, forcing the sadness out of my eyes. I was genuinely happy for my friend, even witnessing their bond.
Steven's gaze focused on my face as his eyes didn't even blink.
“Well, you're a lucky guy Rick, you've found the best woman as your mate,” I said, looking across the table at the two of them.
“I've no doubt regarding this,” Rick said, his voice dropping an octave with pure devotion. He winked at Mia, playfully throwing her a flying kiss across the small distance between them.
“And my kiss with my mate,” he added cheerfully, slingin
