Page 23 of The Game We Played

“No kissing.”

“No one will believe we’re dating if we don’t kiss.”

“Fine. Kissing if it’s strictly necessary.”

He nods.

“This is only until the end of the summer. And you don’t tell anyone the truth.” I don’t want anyone laughing at me behind my back.

“My agent and the PR company know the truth.”

“And you won’t tell anyone else.”

He sticks out his hand. “Agreed.”

I place my hand in his and nearly jump at the spark of electricity. This isn’t real, I remind myself. This is a game we’re playing.

“Thank you, Alaia. I can’t imagine another woman I would want to fake date.”

“Don’t thank me yet. For all you know, I’m a horrible girlfriend.”

He grins. “Nah. I bet you’re one of those awesome girlfriends who makes her boyfriend protein shakes.”

I wag a finger at him. “I’m not making you shakes.”

He shrugs. “It was worth a try.”

“We have a deal, buddy. Don’t push the boundaries or I’ll sic my evil twin sisters on you.”

He shivers. “Good point. I’ll be in touch.”

He stands and marches toward the door.

“Wait! You don’t have my phone number.”

He smirks. “Sure, I do.”

“Smuggler’s Hideaway strikes again.”

“I’ll never tell.” He winks before leaving.

As soon as he’s out of sight, I collapse in the chair. I’m either making the biggest mistake of my life, or this is an opportunity of a lifetime. I guess I’ll find out soon enough.

Chapter 8

BREAKING: TANNER LONG ENCOUNTERS REALITY Local woman not impressed

Tanner

I park my car in front of Alaia’s apartment building and frown. This can’t be right. I check the address she messaged me. This is the correct address. What is Alaia doing living in this dump?

The door to the building is propped open, allowing me to walk straight inside and up the stairs to her second floor apartment.

I knock on the door and wait. When she doesn’t answer, I knock again.

Shit. Did she change her mind? Does she think this is a stupid idea? Does she not want to help me? What will I do if she doesn’t want to help me?

“Alaia!” I shout when I knock on the door for the third time. I don’t care if she changed her mind. She’s not hiding from me.