Page 48

“You asked me if I stole more than just material objects.”

I nodded. “I asked if you stole hearts.”

“I’m hoping the answer will be yes after this date,” he said.

“This isn’t a date,” I said. “It’s a reveal.”

We both stared at each other as the waitress quickly dropped off our waters. I grabbed mine and took a huge sip to try to end the eye contact.

“Just a reveal?” Leo lifted up the rose from the table. “You’re wearing a beautiful dress. I’m in a suit. And I brought you a flower.” He placed it down in front of me. “I’d say this is a date.”

I shook my head. “I’m dating Jacob.”

“If you say so.”

“I do say so.” I placed my glass down a little too hard and water poured down the edge.

Leo laughed. “And yet...you’re here with me.”

“Because you made me! A text would have sufficed.”

“Now where’s the fun in that?”

“Says the guys who’s obsessed with his phone. All you do is text.”

He shrugged. “I’ll use my phone less. Noted.”

I stared at him. “You don’t have to take notes.”

“I want to make my new girlfriend happy.”

I laughed because I didn’t know what else to do. “I’m not your girlfriend. And I’m leaving.” I stood up and then sat back down. “Wait. Do you have any STDs?”

He laughed. “No. Why?”

“Because we...you know.”

“I love how innocent you are.”

I knew my cheeks were turning red. “Not that innocent.”

“Pretty innocent. I’m guessing you and Jacob haven’t had sex yet?”

“We...I...”

“It’s okay. I’m glad you haven’t.”

I glared at him. “We’ve done plenty of stuff. Like...third base stuff.”

He smiled. “I love third base stuff.”

“I know!”

He laughed. “I guess all guys do.”

My heart was beating too fast, remembering the feeling of his fingers between my thighs. And his tongue.

I cleared my throat. “Look, I’m glad that you’re you. And not some drifter. Or...worse.” Like Mr. Halifax. “But I need you to pretend that nothing ever happened between us.”