Page 37 of Pack Plus Three

As soon as I was alone, I was making that shit my screensaver. Jeremy was going to be seething with jealousy.

“Okay, sent!” Daisy chirped happily, reaching to put the phone back in the center console.

I shook my head. “Keep a hold of it, just in case Jeremy replies.”

She nodded in agreement, resting the phone on top of her bump. I chuckled at the sight. I hadn’t even considered that use for her protruding stomach.

“It makes a good shelf!” she cried.

“It’s awesome,” I agreed. “You’re going to miss it when it’s gone.”

“Part of me will. There’s no doubt about that,” she said as she gently rubbed her belly, leaning back. “But part of me will be happy to have my center of gravity back to normal—and less back pain. Oh god, I can’t wait for that!”

“Speaking of back pain.” I leaned forward, touching the button that would turn on her heated seat. “This should help.”

The car was quiet for a moment while the heat kicked in. It was obvious the moment it hit because Daisy’s face became serene, and she sagged in her seat. “Oh, my...that is magical.” She sighed, turning to look at me with a dazed look in her eyes. “Can I live in your car?”

“You’re more than welcome to,” I replied with a grin. “But I don’t think it would be very comfortable, long term.”

“I suppose.” She pouted.

“You are welcome to come and stay in my car anytime you want. I will say, my bed is far more comfortable, though.” I wagged my eyebrows at her as we pulled up to the drive-through.

“Devon! You are being very presumptuous. This is only a first date. You're not getting me into your bed anytime soon.”

My heart beat erratically, and I couldn't help but beam at her. “So, we are in agreement. This is a date.”

Her face flushed bright red, and her mouth opened and closed while she tried to find the words. “I . . . uh . . . I mean . . .” she stammered.

My hand that wasn't on the steering wheel reached out to grab hers. I gently pulled it toward my mouth and kissed the back of her hand. “Oh, this is definitely a date. I'm just glad you agree with me.”

“My hair isn't even brushed. It can't be a date!” she cried, trying to retrieve her hand. But it was futile.

“Is hair brushing a prerequisite to a date? If so, let me know, and I'll make sure I keep one in my car at all times.”

She burst into laughter, shaking her head. “You know what I mean.”

“I do, but I think it's silly. You look stunning tonight, and we're going to enjoy some good food, and it's going to be an amazing date. And don't go thinking I'm easy. I'm a classy guy. I require at least three dates before you go nesting in my bed.”

Daisy laughed. “I'm sorry I assumed differently.”

Who was I kidding? If she asked right now, I would drive her straight to the packhouse, put her in my bed, and let her nest to her heart's content.

Jeremy probably wouldn't like that, but I was willing to fight the grumpy old bastard to get Daisy nesting in my bedroom instead of his.

Yes, he was much bigger than me. Yes, he was much stronger than me. Yes, he would undoubtedly win. But I would still have Daisy in my bedroom, making a nest, for a few minutes, and those would be the best few minutes ever.

“I don't recognize this place,” Daisy said with a frown, looking at the diner.

We had taken several side roads to get there, and it was off the beaten path. “It's something of a hidden gem. Nate and I got far too drunk in college and got lost trying to find our way home, and instead, we found this place and discovered possibly some of the best burgers in the city.”

“It's adorable. I can't believe something this cute is hiding behind all these back alleys.”

The diner had a 50s vibe to it and was definitely well loved, but she was right in the fact that it had a certain charm.

“What would you like to do? Do you want to go in and eat or eat in the car as we discussed? You are in charge here.”

Daisy bit her lip. “Are you sure you don't mind eating in the car? It's such a nice car. I'm scared I'm going to get it dirty.”

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