That surprises me even more than his so-called secret. Chuckling, I lean back on my hands. “Well, that’s good to hear.”
“Don’t tell her I said that,” he quickly adds with wide eyes. Looking to the side, as if he’s thinking something over quickly, he adds, “And don’t tell her niece. I mean, Ithinkshe’s Stella’s aunt? Whatever.”
This time I do my best to bite back a laugh, realizing that Jake is almost ten and noticinggirls for the first time. First crushes are confusing for any person.
Before I can promise to keep my mouth shut, he huffs out a breath and looks at me with pleading eyes. “How about you just forget I even said anything?”
”No can do, man,” I tell him with a shake of my head. His face falls in betrayal, and this time I let my amusement fall from my lips. “You’ve given me hope for the evening, and for that, I can keep your secrets safe.”
He nods resolutely. “Deal.” Giving me a curious look, he asks, “What’s a date like?”
Giving him a long look, I think of a kid-friendly response that doesn’t involve telling himwheremost of my dates end up—though, that’s not the plan for tonight.
“They’re different for everyone.” I can tell the answer isn’t enough for him, so I try to explain the concept better, knowing that he looks up to me and my words matter. “Mostly, it just means you’re spending time with someone but it’s different, more intentional, than when you hang out with your friends. You take someone on a date when you ‘like’ them.”
He squints, staring at the ocean. “You mean when youlikelikesomeone?”
Grinning, I smile, reminded of what it’s like to be a kid and using that silly term. “Yeah, exactly. You go to dinner, or a movie or whatever, and get to know each other.”
“Did you take Hannah on dates?” he asks, genuine curiosity in his eyes.
The casual mention of my ex-fiancée surprises me. Our engagement wasn’t ugly, but it wasn’t amicable on her side. I’ve moved so far past that stage of my life, but we were together for most of Jake’s life.
“Uh, yeah,” I admit. “I took Hannah on dates. Usually, dates come before ‘boyfriend and girlfriend,’ then it can move into something more serious. Like how your dads are married.”
He nods, starting to understand. “Dad and Papa still go on dates.”
“The best couples never stop.” I wink, making him puff out his chest at the confirmation that his dads love each other very much.
It’s true. Even though they had their own struggles when they first met, I immediately loved Knox for my cousin. I never doubted they would figure their shit out, and they’ve been committed to each other every day since. Not only to the relationship, but toeach other. I think that’s the key to staying in love.
And for a long time, Hannah and I were committed to the relationship, but not each other’s needs and desires.
Thankfully, his interest in the topic dies off after that. We stay by the beach for a while, finishing our smoothies and talking about which rides Jake is the most excited for this weekend. Eventually, he jumps off the wall and leads metoward the bookstore, the same one that feels familiar, but I can’t place inside my mind. As the afternoon waves on, my thoughts move to the date tonight—to imagining who the ‘pretty’ woman could be.
Chapter Four
Calypso
Stepping out of my vintage red convertible, I fix my black satin midi skirt and contemplate getting back in and driving away. I’ve had a weird feeling about this date since Lexi originally asked me to take her place. I still don’t believe that was her only reason. Trying to figure out her angle is the main reason I’m here.
…and this month’s curated menu.
Resisting the urge to bite my lip, not wanting to ruin my lipstick, I settle for a deep sigh and walk toward the entrance of Max’s. The fact the man is springing for dinnerheredefinitely adds a tiny pep to my step.
Walking up to the host stand, I give the last name Maddon, having learned my date is Lucas and Mia’s cousin. She walks me toward the back of the restaurant to a more secluded dining area. The tables are set for smaller parties with dividers and plants, offering a little more privacy between tables.
I don’t get a look at my date until we’re rounding the corner and the host is pulling my seat out for me.
Mydateis standing to greet me, but freezes halfway when he meets my gaze.
“Hi,” he breathes out. The ghost of it tickles my neck, reminding me of when he stood flush against my back and kissed my neck in the elevator.
Before he can recover and get up to greet me, I quickly drop down into my seat and offer the host a polite but slightly dismissive smile. She isn’t put off by it and lets us know she’ll grab our server.
“No rush,” he tells her and pours me a glass of water.
“Actually, I’d love a drink,” I tell her before she can walk away. At her surprised expression, I add, “Now. Please. Thanks.”
