“Doesn’t it? I mean, by definition, exercise is burning calories. And sex certainly does that.”
“True.” She bit back a smile. “But I still don’t think it counts as a hobby.”
“Why not?”
I loved the fact that she was willing to debate this. And I loved the way she continually challenged me, even if it could be maddening at times. It had been far too long since I’d had a good challenge.
“Well…” She considered it a moment before responding, “It’s not something you do with friends.”
“Not all hobbies are. Besides, that’s not entirely true. Haven’t you ever heard of friends with benefits? If not, I’d be happy to educate you.”
Her shoulders shook with silent laughter. “Oh honey, I probably had friends with benefits before you were old enough to understand the term.”
I crossed my arms over my chest, narrowing my eyes at her. “Are you being ageist?”
“I’m being realistic. How old are you?”
“How old do you think I am?” I asked, surprised she didn’t already know the answer.
A quick online search would’ve given her almost any information she’d wanted about me. Even so, I appreciated that she actually seemed to want to hear it from me.
When she didn’t answer, I said, “I’m twenty-seven.”
“Like I said, you were in elementary school by the time I was exploring the term friends with benefits and all it had to offer.”
“Is that an issue—our age difference?”
She shook her head, and I let out a breath I hadn’t realized I was holding. “Look, I’m flattered, truly. But I think we need to keep this professional. I like you, but—” She huffed, the movement ruffling some of the strands of hair near her face.
“But?” I nudged her with my elbow, not wanting to let the moment get too serious.
“Well, I’m sure as the owner of your own business, you can understand how important my reputation is to me.”
I nodded, knowing all too well. It was a lesson my parents had drilled into me since before I could talk—appearances were everything. And while I didn’t like it, I could respect it.
“Can we at least be friends?”
She thought about it a moment before saying, “I’d like that.”
“Friends with benefits?” I was teasing, mostly.
I’d accept friendship for now. Once my house was decorated and our professional relationship was over, all bets were off.
“Hunter,” she growled.
“Fine. Fine.” I held up my hands in surrender. “I’ll be good. Promise.” I mimed crossing my heart over my chest.
“The problem is, I’m not sure you know how.” Her tone was serious, though she was smiling.
When I was around her, I wasn’t sure I did either. But I’d try. Because it was important to her. Which meant it was now important to me too. So, I switched the conversation back to a safer topic—hobbies.
“Honestly, between my job and my family, I don’t have a lot of time for hobbies. Though, I do enjoy trying new things. And—” I took a breath, bracing for her reaction. “You’re going to think this is cheesy, but I love old movies.”
“I don’t think that’s cheesy. Who doesn’t loveCasablancaandSingin’ in the Rain?”
I grinned, pleased by her response. She had cited some of the more famous older movies, but I couldn’t wait to introduce her to others. Ones that were lesser-known and underappreciated. The hidden gems, likeAll About Eve,my favorite movie of all time.
“What about you?” I asked, wanting to know more about her. Because that’s what friends did, right? “What are your hobbies?”
