Page 26 of Baby Daddy Wanted

E L E V E N

- Maeve -

I looked up from my desk when I heard a knock, and my face fell when Kurt popped his head around the door.

“Happy New Year,” he said, smiling sheepishly.

I shuddered. He’d never looked sheepish before, and it wasn’t a good look for him. “Happy New Year,” I said, my professionalism trumping my desire to say something snarky and cutting. Then again, I was too proud to admit he’d hurt my feelings.

He stepped inside and closed the door behind him. “Are you avoiding me?”

Does that stupid question really deserve a response? “Can I help you?”

“Don’t be like that,” he said, walking up to my desk. “I came to see if you’re okay.”

“I’m not sure what you mean.”

“I mean after we talked the other night?”

I made a face like I was wracking my brain. “Ohh. You mean when you stood me up and then dumped me over the phone? I remember now.”

“Well?”

My face furrowed. “Well, what?”

“Are you okay?” he asked, dragging out every word.

I narrowed my eyes at him. “I’m not going to jump off the building, if that’s what you’re asking?”

He sighed. “No, Maeve. That’s not what I’m asking.”

“Then I guess I don’t understand the question.”

“I just mean are we cool?”

“How can we be cool when you’re wildly, dysfunctionally uncool?” I asked. “Which reminds me…” I reached down for the small garbage bag that I put his Christmas presents in because I didn’t want his inferior retinas feasting on my beautiful wrapping efforts in front of me. “This is for you.”

“Maeve—”

“Just take it. It’s all non-refundable at this point, and I can’t burn it because I don’t have a fireplace.”

“You shouldn’t have.”

I cocked my head at him. “Yes, obviously I realize that now.”

“Once you’ve had some time to cool off, I’m sure you’ll see this is the best thing for both of us.”

Once I cool off?“I’m ice cold, Kurt. Don’t you worry about me.”

“I don’t want to make a scene.”

Jesus. I had pillows with more emotional aptitude.“Have I ever done anything since you met me that made you think I’m the kind of woman who appreciates a good scene?”

He shook his head.

“So what are you really doing here?”

“I wanted to make sure you’re okay.”

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