Page 45 of Not That Into You

“I think we’re the type of couple who would have nicknames for each other.”

“We are definitely not that type of couple.”

“How about button?”

I glare at him. He’s not even trying to conceal his smile.

He glances at me and smirks. “Because you’re cute as a button.”

I narrow my eyes before looking down at my cuticles. “I suppose I could call you asshole.” I look back up and bat my eyelashes at him. “Because it’s always been my favorite nickname for you.”

He gives me a bland look. “I’m not sure people would buy that one.”

“I’m not sure people would buy me answering to a nickname.”

“Your mom calls you Nica.”

“Yes, but only my mom calls me that.”

“What does your dad call you?”

“Monica.” My dad does have a nickname for me, but it’ll be a cold day in hell before I share it with Cameron.

He snorts. “Fine. I’ll just give it some thought.” He grins at me. “I’m sure inspiration will strike.”

I shake my head. Maybe if I distract him, he’ll forget about this whole nickname nonsense. “How long have you been surfing?”

“Uh . . . let’s see.” He taps the steering wheel with his thumb. “I guess I was seven when I caught my first wave.” He laughs. “Or tried to.”

“Seven?” That seems awfully young.

“Yeah. I borrowed some other kid’s board and tried to do it on my own.” He glances at me with a smile. “I don’t recommend that approach.”

“You learned on your own?”

“Nah. My parents were not pleased about my new hobby, but they eventually let me go to a surf camp after it became clear I wasn’t going to stop.” He shrugs. “I’ve been surfing ever since.”

“Do you surf often?”

“Not as much anymore. Only when I come to the Hamptons, and I try to avoid that as much as possible.” He perks up. “Hey, I should teach you how to surf.”

I shake my head. “Oh, no. No, thank you.”

“Yeah. Tomorrow morning.” He gestures between us. “You and me.”

“No.” I’m still shaking my head. “Not necessary.”

“Totally necessary.” He grins. “It’ll be fun.”

“No.”

“Yes.”

“No.”

He presses his lips together. “Hm. Okay, I get it.”

I relax back into my seat. “Thank you.”

---