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“What’s so funny?” Maddy asks from the kitchen. Burnt popcorn permeates the air. I swear she’d burn water if given a chance. She’s a terrible cook.
“Nothing. Trust me.”
She gives me a coy look. “You’re not still texting with Blake, are you?”
“Maybe.”
“God, be careful around him. Trust me, you don’t want to get deeper than you already are.”
Already are?What does she mean? I’m not anything with him.
“What happened to being the queen of his castle?”
“That was a joke.” She pauses midstep, clutches the popcorn bowl, and tilts her head. “Though you would rock with a tiara, just saying.”
“There won’t be anything to worry about; he was just?—”
Knock. Knock. Knock.
Our heads jerk toward the door.
“Expecting someone?” She raises her microbladed eyebrow as a smirk plays across her face.
“I didn’t think he was serious.”
Maddy makes a sound that’s a cross between a laugh and snort, tosses the bowl on the end table, and races to the door. She looks a little too giddy as she swings the door open. “Hey, Blake. What are you doing here?”
His tall frame fills the door as he stands there with a lopsided grin and dimple on display. I remind myself to breathe. But damn, he is handsome. His dark hair is styled casually yet put together, and a light stubble accentuates his sharp jawline. He stands tall and confident, exuding an air of success.
All of which screams trouble.
For my heart.
Those eyes, dancing with mirth, land on me. “I’m here to collect my date.”
My mouth drops open as my hands ball into fists. I can’t believe he just said that.
“I’m not a piece of property.” I place my fists on my hips, staring defiantly at him.
“Never claimed you to be. But I do believe we need to talk before tomorrow.” His half-smirk grows to a full-fledged grin. “The best way to get to know each other is to spend time together.”
His smooth voice is calming and makes me wonder if I overreacted. Damn it. I don’t want to like my fake date.
I huff out a frustrated breath. “I’ll grab my purse. Just a sec.”
Maddy gives him a quick once-over before landing her gaze on me as I pass.
Yeah. Yeah. Yeah. I hear you. I’ll watch my heart.That won’t be a problem.
True, he’s undeniably handsome, and my body reacts instinctively to his presence. I mean, who wouldn’t? But that doesn’t mean I like him enough to fall for him. I’ll be fine.
“So, what does my wallet owe this honor?” I ask as soon as we’re out of earshot from inquiring minds.
“We need to have a game plan tomorrow.” Blake tugs at his shirt before placing his hands in his jean’s pockets. “Like getting to know each other in case questions arise.”
“That’s a good idea.” And it is. I’m surprised I hadn’t thought about it. Between work and studies, I wasn’t focusing on the logistics. Errant thought on my part.
We approach a sleek, black sports car, and for a second, I freeze. This is no college kid’s beater; it’s the kind of ride that screams money and status. My stomach twists at the thought of what I’m up against. This is why I shouldn’t feel guilty for accepting the money. The car alone probably cost more than my entire college tuition.
