Page 8 of The Hot New Single Dad Next Door

“Honestly, Lottie, you sound really entitled.”

“Entitled?”

“You should work on being a better role model for your son instead of harassing innocent businessmen when you don’t get what you want.”

My eye twitches. “First of all, I’m a great role model for my son. I’m a strong, independent woman, and I’ve worked hard for everything I have.”

“I’m sure that’s true.” He leans forward. “I’m still not leaving.”

I seethe. “You know, the last thing Small Town needs is another man like you.”

He crosses his thick arms, amused. “A man like me?” he asks.

“Yeah,” I say. “You Big City rich guys are always rolling through here, taking whatever you want. But let me tell you something...”

I pause, my words failing.

He tilts forward an inch, his handsome brown eyes practically dancing now. “I’m waiting.”

“I...” I stutter. “We Smalltowners stick together. One word from me and no one’s gonna come to your...” I glance around the space. “What is this gonna be?”

“A barbershop,” he says.

“A barbershop?”

“Yeah.”

“You cut hair?”

“Yes.”

I scoff. “Who would open a barbershop here? We don’t need a barbershop! We already have a barbershop.” I spin toward Frank. “Don’t we?”

“No,” he answers.

“Don’t we?” I ask again, expecting a different answer.

“No.”

I deepen my glare, then spin forward where the man’s smirk has morphed into a full, shit-eating grin. “This location is way too big for a barbershop,” I argue. “What do you need? Three chairs and a cash register?”

“You’re pretty cute when you’re angry,” he says.

“Excuse me?”

“Are you single?”

I step back, my gut twisting with disgust as my spine tickles from his attention. “This is a mistake,” I say. “You’re going to regret this.”

He winks at me. “I’m sure I will.”

“Come on, Liam,” I say, giving his hand a light tug. “We’re going home.”

“Bye-bye, Liam!” he says, waving.

“Don’t talk to my kid,” I spit over my shoulder.

Frank shuffles over to open the door for me and I hit him with another harsh glare instead of thanking him.

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