Page 21 of Burn With Me

I know I’m pushing, but this is the first time she’s told me maybe and not no. I know if I let her continue to come up with every excuse not to go out, she’ll put it off forever.

She’s a business owner and is very busy. I witnessed it firsthand at the farmers’ market. It’s one of the things I admire about her. She’s passionate and is building a good thing in the community, from not only what I can see but also what I’ve heard. I would never stand in the way of that. I just want her to know that I’m interested and willing to work around her schedule.

Shit, are there any mini golf places around here?

“Hey, Sam, do you know of any mini golf places around here?” I ask.

“I moved here just before you. So I know just as much as you do. Google it, asshole,” he replies.

When I google it, I’m frustrated with the lack of selection in the area. There are a couple of places, but I can’t tell how good they are from the pictures.

I mentally slap my forehead. I should have planned some ideas ahead of time.

“What’s Amelia’s favorite food and favorite wine?” I ask as we take out the last of the boxes from the moving vans before we send them on their way.

“Actually, Am doesn’t drink anymore.” He cocks is head. “No, that’s a lie. I’ve seen her have one beer here and there over the last several years, but she doesn’t drink much,” he says as he sets down the boxes he’s carrying. “Man, you went from never wanting to date back in Boston to chasing someone after having one dinner with her.” He laughs.

“Fuck off, dude. I hope you find someone soon who knocks you on your ass but doesn’t give you the time of day,” I tell him, looking at my phone again, hoping she messages me back.

“Don’t you put that mojo on me, man. It would be a disservice to the female population for me to settle down. No, thank you.”

My phone finally vibrates, and I swear I haven’t been this excited about anything outside of my career in a long time.

Amelia: Gah, fine.

But don’t kid yourself. It’s because I love mini golf

And you can’t cry when I kick your ass.

Luke: If you say so

I’ll pick you up from your place around 6p

Is that enough time after your meeting to let Penny out?

Amelia: I can meet you there

I laugh at that. If she thinks I’m going to give her an out, she’s fooling herself.

Luke: No can do, babe. I’m going to pick you up. You’re a flight risk

Amelia: You’re a pain in the ass

Has anyone told you that?

Luke: My mom tells me all the time

Amelia: FINE. I’ll be ready around 6 or 6:30

Luke: Knew you would see it my way

Be ready to get your ass handed to you in some mini golf

Amelia: Dream on, Luke. Dream on

I want to pump my arm in the air and whoop, but I refrain, barely.

“Are you on-call this weekend?” Sam asks.

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