Page 59 of Tempting Him

Dad laughs. "You're not usually so tight-lipped. You got a girlfriend?" He pauses. "Boyfriend?"

I let loose a sigh that I didn't mean to sound so fed up, but being next to Alek and talking about this is the last thing I want to do.

"Neither," I answer. "But I have options." I add the last part, wanting to see how Alek responds.

His eyes flicker to me, his jaw tense before he reaches for his glass.

"Well, you're still young," Dad says. "You have time."

"I suppose. I've had enough play time, though. My oats are sowed."

Me and Dad laugh, but Alek remains stoic.

"Don't rush into anything," Dad preaches. "When you find someone you really like, you'll know. It'll come when you least expect it."

I nod, taking another sip of beer. My phone rings, and after a quick glance at the screen, I say, "Excuse me. It's Bryant. I have to take this."

I walk out of the bar and stand near the window. "Hello?"

"Hey, man. What're you doing right now?"

I look through the glass and find Alek watching me before focusing on what my dad is saying.

"I'm out with my dad and boss."

"Yikes."

I laugh. "Exactly. They're friends. It's weird."

"Yeah, sounds fun," he says with a chuckle. "Well, shit. I was hoping I'd have you as my hype man when I go see Jackson."

I glance at my watch before looking through the window again. Dad gives me the don't be rude face, gesturing toward Alek with his head.

"My dad is giving me the parent look. Apparently, I have to act like I want to hang out with my boss."

"Damn. Well, I'll let you know how it goes. Wish me luck."

I chuckle. "You got this man. I'll call you later."

"Have fun."

I roll my eyes. "Right."

He laughs before ending the call, and I make my way back to the small table. "Sorry about that."

"Who's Bryant?" Dad asks in a teasing tone. "He one of the options?"

I open my mouth to tell him the truth, but pissing Alek off and making him jealous seems like the better option.

"Maybe," I reply with a coy smile.

Dad shakes his head with a good-hearted laugh, looking at Alek. "This kid." Dad aims his gaze at me again. "Well, you've always had your fair share to choose from. Everybody's always been drawn to you. Just remember to stay considerate of people's feelings."

I nod, chancing a look at Alek.

"You thinking of having kids, Alek, or is that not in the cards for you?" Dad asks.

"Oh." Alek shifts, clearing his throat. "I'm not sure about that. For a long time I didn't think it would be possible." When Dad cocks his head, Alek continues. "Long hours. Always working. You know?"

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