Page 9 of Bargain Match

“In most cases, we’re asking the paired matches to get to know each other tonight and decide whether or not they’d like to embark on an adventure together.”

She tilts her head to the side like she can see us through the screen.

It’s kind of creepy.

“As the two of you already know each other well, what do you say we skip those niceties and get to the facts of your trip.”

Hadley turns to me, her eyes wide. “Just like that? We’re going on the trip just like that?”

“Shh.” I nod to the screen. “Let’s listen to what she has to say.”

“As the pair of you are so fond of mountains and rivers and outdoor adventures, I wanted to pick a place that would truly speak to your interests and kindle the love already brimming inside of you this Valentine’s Day.”

“This lady is really pulling out all the sap,” Hadley murmurs.

“That’s why”—the Matchmaker continues on the screen—“I have chosen to send you to Scotland.”

Hadley’s jaw drops. “Scotland?”

“Yes, Scotland,” the Matchmaker answers as if she could hear Hadley all along. “We’ll fly you into Edinburgh, and from there you’ll have your choice of many excursions. Day trips to the majestic Highlands. Hikes along stunning lochs. And, of course, a Valentine’s Day dinner at a castle.”

“Actually…” Hadley tilts her head to the side. “that doesn’t sound so bad.”

“So what do you say, Burke and Hadley.” The Matchmaker clasps her hands together. “Will you take this trip of a lifetime to discover the greatest adventure of all: falling in love?”

I turn to Hadley. “I’m in if you are.”

She nods. “But the same rules apply. We go frugal and we save money for our business. Right?”

“Right.”

“And we keep up the act that we’re in love so no one suspects a thing.”

“Sure.”

“Then”—Hadley holds out her hand to me—“do we have a deal?”

I take her hand in mine, appreciating the way they fit so well together. “Deal.”

There’s just one thing. I don’t need to pretend that I’m in love with Hadley. I already am.

And this trip to Scotland we’re about to take, it doesn’t just mean money to make our first few loan payments. It’s my chance. My chance to show Hadley that I’m not like other men.

It’s my chance to make her love me every bit as much as I love her.

FIVE

BURKE

One week, and a flight with way too many damn layovers later, I wonder if I haven’t made a huge mistake.

Not trying to win Hadley’s heart. That’ll never be a mistake. But trying to do it like this, well, we’ll either be closer than ever by the time this is over. Or we’ll hate each other’s guts.

Hadley pulls the tiny rental car to a stop outside a ramshackle inn.

I grunt.

She puts the car in park and scowls at me. “What’s wrong now?”

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