Page 33 of Two Guys, a Girl, and a Tripod

“Well, what makes Oklahoma so great?”

“Who says it is?” Sure I lived there for nearly 28 years, but I neverlikedit.

“Have you lived anywhere else?”

“No.”

“Every place has its pros and cons.”

“But you’ve always lived here,” I remind him. “How do you know there’s not something better out there?”

“I don’t.” He shrugs. “But I’m happy here. I’ve got my best friend living under the same roof, a good job where I get to work from home, and now I’m on a date with a beautiful woman.” I feel my face flush.

“Oh, you’re good.” I squint at him and lean back just as Alexis silently sets down another round on the table and clears our empty glasses.

“I’m well aware.” Another wink.

“There’sthe flaw.” I shake a finger at him. “Arrogance. I found it.”

“Damn it, you discovered my secret.” Brody feigns frustration, but I see the smirk on his face. “I guess I shouldn’t have ordered another round. You probably want to just end the date now.”

“I can chug this if I need to,” I tease, but raise the glass to my lips and only take a normal swig.

“You do that and I’ll have to call you a cab.” He raises his glass to his lips.

“Or take me home yourself.” I catch myself before my eyes widen but stammer my next words. “I didn’t mean- I just meant- Take me to myownhome.”

Brody tries not to laugh, but I catch his eyes as they darken, the pupils dilating just the tiniest bit. Barely anything, but I notice. I know that look. Shit, maybeImessed this up.

“Enjoy yourself, Sophie,” he assures me with a warm smile. My name sounds good on his lips. “If you need help getting home, I’ll make sure you get there safely.”

Full.

On.

Blushing.

I can’t stop the heat in my cheeks and it’s not the alcohol. I trust this man not to take advantage if I end up in a mental state that wouldn’t allow me to consent. I feel safe with Brody.

“I’m going to slow down anyway,” I finally respond, grabbing the ice water.

“Good girl.”

Fuck.

Brody realizes what he said. I see it on his face, but he doesn’t take it back, doesn’t stammer like me. He lets it sit there, hanging between us, and I try to focus on how to bring the water to my lips. I think I’ve forgotten how to swallow.

“You mentioned something about streaming.” Brody is the one to break the silence.

Shit.

“Did I?”

“Yeah, I mentioned watching video game streamers when I’m bored.” He looks a little embarrassed by the confession. “You said you like doing live broadcasts.”

“Oh, yeah. I do some streaming. Not much,” I’m quick to add.

“I’d love to watch you play sometime.”

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