When Michael got out of the shower, they ordered pizza.
"That was delicious. I never had pizza," said Autumn, throwing her plate away.
"Really."
"I never really was interested in it, but now I am."
"How about inviting your friend over on Wednesday? We can have a cookout and we can get to know each other. What do you think?"
"I'll tell her about it."
"Awesome. Supper will be at seven. It's getting late and I need to get to bed. Join me?"
"Sure."
They snuggled close and fell asleep.
The next morning, Michael arrived back at Aspen's house. He found Aspen sitting at the bar drinking coffee and reading the paper.
"Hello. How was your night?" Aspen asked.
"A good one. The girl I met the other night invited us for a barbecue on Wednesday night."
"Why?"
"I told her about us and she thought we all could get to know one another. Her brother will be there."
"What's her name and what time?"
"Autumn is her name and we should be there for seven."
"Ok."
Wednesday evening, Aspen admired herself in the mirror. She chose a black off-the-shoulder crop top that showed a little of her mid-riff and skirt. Michael stepped into her room and she turned around. Michael wore tan cargo shorts and a black button shirt with three buttons undone.
"What do you think?" she asked.
"Very beautiful. You ready?"
"Yes."
They arrived at Autumn's house at six forty-five. Autumn answered the door and she wore a pink off-the-shoulder knot front ruched bodycon dress.
"Michael, so good to see you," said Autumn, hugging him.
"Good to see you. Autumn, this is Aspen, Aspen this is Autumn."
"Good to see you," said Autumn.
"Likewise."
"Come on in. The steaks are almost done."
They entered the pool area and Aspen noticed a guy cooking at the grill. He had dark hair with a ponytail. He wore denim shorts with a black shirt.
"Tony. I would like you to meet a couple of people."
Anthony put down the grilling fork and turned around. Aspen couldn't believe her eyes. It was Anthony Ashe.
"Tony, this is Michael and his friend Aspen. This is Tony, my brother."
"Nice to meet you," said Michael, shaking his hand.
Anthony nodded.
"Lovely to meet you," said Anthony to Aspen shaking her hand. She was shaking as he took her hand. He slid down his sunglasses and saw the most beautiful brown eyes. She noticed a scar starting from the brow and ending near his eye.
"Yes, it's great to meet you," said Aspen.
"Tony. How long until the steaks are done?"