He mutters something under his breath before asking,
“Are you sure it’s a good idea? We might have to put on a show again to convince people I’m your date.”
I swallow, my throat suddenly dry. I’d put on a show with him any day.
“Would that…” I swallow again. “Be ok? It would just be for the night. I’m not asking you to fake it indefinitely.”
More muttering. He’s clearly conflicted, but I can feel his resolve weakening.
“There will be free food, an open bar, and I’m pretty sure they’ll give out swag bags, too,” I offer.
“Alright,” he chuckles, finally relenting. “I’ll go with you.”
I squeal and clap my hands together, earning another chuckle.
“But no funny business, OK? If he’s a no-show, we’re just there as friends. I haven’t changed my mind about what I said before.”
“We won’t do anything you’re not comfortable with,” I promise.
“Deal,” he agrees.
I just hope he’s comfortable with a kiss by the time the event comes around. I’m still jonesing from the last one.
Chapter twenty
Damon
Council of Bros
Noah:Chill out, bro. I’ve never seen you this on edge before.
Adam:He’s on a date with his dream girl. He’s bound to be a little wound up!
For the millionth time: IT’S NOT A DATE!
Cory:Yell all you want. We all know you’re crazy about her.
I blow out a frustrated breath, tugging at the collar of my dress shirt. The top button feels like it’s cutting off my circulation. Why did I let my brothers talk me into a tie?
Niko, Kendra’s driver, shoots me a look via the rearview mirror.
“Everything good, sir?” he asks with a lift of his eyebrow.
No!Everything isnotgood. I’m in a fancy sedan, wearing a designer straightjacket, just blocks from Kendra’s place, and I’m freaking out.
It’s not like I’ve never been to a fancy event. I go to tons as Noah’s plus one. But going as Kendra’smaybe friend, maybe moreis something else entirely. She’s asupermodel. A legitcelebrity! There’ll be cameras everywhere and reporters trying to get to her, and I’ll be right there.
I let out a shaky breath.
“Everything’s great, Niko. And please just call me Damon.”
“Of course,” he says, turning back to the traffic ahead when the light turns green.
I should’ve insisted on separate cars. I understand why we have to come together—Kendra’s trying to keep her relationship status vague, especially now that her ex is engaged—but it means I have zero time to get my head on straight, something I’m used to doing before every big game. And between the cameras, her ex, and us pretending to be more than we are, tonight isdefinitelya game.
I tug at my collar again, hoping my continuous fidgeting will somehow add stretch to fabric that’s got about as much give as plywood. My phone buzzes in my pocket.
Adam
