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“I’m sorry,” I shake my head in confusion, “there’s a bad kind of rich? I mean, you can do all sorts of fun stuff on dates without worrying about money. I think most women would appreciate not having to argue about splitting the bill or paying for dates themselves.”
Caleb’s eyebrows scrunch together. “Have you had to split the bill on dates before?”
“At least half of them, and twice where I had to pay the entire thing,” I tell him. “That’s one of the reasons I don’t date much—it’s just too much of a hassle.”
“Well, most women I’ve dated quickly start asking for luxury items, trips, and some even propose marriage so they can be taken care of,” Caleb replies dryly.
“Oh no! Did you think I was expecting you to take care of me because of that little white lie to my family?” I’m horrified at the thought. “I didn’t even know who you were when you walked through my door. I promise,” I say, placing my hand over my heart.
“No, I believe you. You’re the first genuine offer I’ve received—nothing more than a temporary boyfriend until the family wedding.” Caleb smiles. “I have to admit, though, it’s the most unique way I’ve been asked on a date. And if you’d like, I’m willing to continue the charade with your family while I’m in town.”
I let out a sigh of relief. “That would be great! It’ll at least buy me some peace while I prepare for the wedding and manage my business,” I tell him with a wide grin on my face, as his striking eyes captivate me again.
“Looks like our stay here in Rustic Ridge will be a bit longer than we originally anticipated,” Gene says. “I have several pieces of real estate around here that I want to check in on while I’m here. I’ll also have to find someone to help me handle my properties,” he says, looking pretty dejected.
“Actually, I might be able to help with that,” I tell him. “Missy’s fiancé, Nolan Hayes, is a local real estate agent. He has a lot of experience and knowledge about the area since he grew up here. Even if he can’t take on long-term clients, he could at least help you get settled.”
“That would be wonderful, Piper,” Gene says. “So, how long have you been a tenant? I’m sorry. I would know that if I kept up better on my properties.”
“No worries. With everything on your plate, it’s understandable,” I reply, gently lowering Gizmo onto my lap for a snooze. “I’ve been here six years. Before that, I went away to culinary school and worked with two different bakeries for a year each. I wanted to gain some experience and see what worked before I jumped into opening my own shop,” I confess.
“I think that’s great,” Caleb chimes in. “I took on several internships and unpaid positions before starting my pharmaceutical company. Yes, it may have been easier with family money backing me, but it still involved a lot of risk. Understanding your industry by observing competitors’ experiences is invaluable.” He gives me a sweet smile.
“You didn’t go into real estate like Gene? What made you choose something different?” I ask.
“I wanted to use my passion for science and innovation in the pharmaceutical industry. There’s a need for more affordable solutions to global problems. And even when a cure has been found, it’s not always accessible to the people that need it most,” he explains. “I’m working to change that.”
“It sounds like a noble cause.” I glance at Gene, noticing a warm glow in his eyes. “You’re proud of him, even if he didn’t continue the family business, aren’t you?”
“Of course I am. He pursued something he was passionate about. He’s accomplished so much, and he’s helping a lot of people,” Gene says, putting his hand on Caleb’s shoulder.
Caleb grins at him. “We should probably find our hotel, Grandad. Piper, can you give us Nolan’s number so we can set up a meeting?”
“Yes, I can do that. I’ll call him to make the introduction,” I reply. “I realize that, in most circles, you probably don’t need an introduction, but in a small town like Rustic Ridge—we do things with a good ol’ handshake.”
“We appreciate your help,” Gene expresses gratitude as we finish up our coffee, and he grabs another cookie to go.
“If Dominic comes back or causes any trouble, please don’t hesitate to call me.” Caleb takes a card from his pocket and lays it out in front of me. “The number on the back is my cell phone.”
“Looks like you even managed to get his number on your first meeting,” Gene teases with a wink. “That’s a good sign.”
“Grandfather,” Caleb grunts playfully.
I walk them to the front door of the bakery and watch as they get into their car. As I lift my hand to wave, the car pulls away and I catch a glimpse of Caleb’s smiling face through the window, his eyes meeting mine for a brief moment before disappearing down the street.
“Well, that was unexpected.” Mia’s voice startles me as she speaks from right behind me. I close the bakery door while she continues, “You know your mother will sniff out the truth about your ‘relationship,’” she adds, making air quotes with her fingers, “right? She’s got a sixth sense about single women.”
I flash her a grin. “I just need to keep it up until after Missy’s wedding,” I assure her, though a part of me does wonder what it would be like to have a real boyfriend. Someone I don’t have to pretend about. Someone who genuinely cares for me and supports me no matter what. Caleb pops into my mind.
I know—I literally just met him. But there’s something about Caleb that draws me in. He may come from a wealthy family, but he doesn’t seem to have the same entitled attitude as others I’ve met. He seems genuinely sweet and down-to-earth. The man is obviously brilliant and successful with his company. His grandfather adores him, which only adds to his appeal. And let’s not overlook his undeniable charm and good looks. I despise the phrase “out of my league” but it may apply here. Stranger things have happened than two unlikely people falling in love—I’m not saying Caleb and I will fall in love. This is temporary. It’s pretend. I doubt we are destined for romance, but it might be nice to play the part—even if it’s just for a little while.
5
Caleb
As I walk through the park, the damp grass and earthy smell from the recent rain surround me. Trees dot the green field and a duck pond glimmers in the mid-morning sun. Trails wind through the foliage with benches scattered throughout. My grandfather had left me a note while I was on my last work call saying he would be at the park. I know something has been weighing on his mind, so I hope he will open up to me.
I spot Grandad sitting on a bench by the pond watching Gizmo attempt to chase after ducks. Despite Gizmo’s belief that he’s a fierce hunting dog, his small stature renders him more adorable than intimidating. Tufts of black and brown fur point out in all directions with a distinctive white patch around one eye. I see small dogs like him all the time in the city, though Gizmo definitely wouldn’t like being cooped up in a purse all day. He looks like he belongs right here, chasing ducks and running free.
