Page 67 of Faking the Book Boyfriend

She looks at Trey. “I have everything you asked for. Come out when you two are…ready.”

At that, she walks out the door and closes it behind her.

I look at him in question. “What was that about?”

“I gave her some ingredients that I need to make you ladies Christmas breakfast and other fun treats. We can make everything together.”

My shoulders fall. “I hate that you’re missing this tradition with your family. I know it means a lot to you.”

He softly kisses my lips. “I hope it becomesourtradition.”

I get a knot in my throat. I’m so confused by him.

Before I can respond, he nods toward the bracelet. “May I?”

I hold out my wrist. “Thank you. It’s beautiful.”

“It pales in comparison to your beauty.”

He clasps the truly stunning piece of jewelry around my wrist and rubs his thumb over it. “I love it on you. There are more pieces in the collection.”

“I don’t need you to buy me things. I just want you. Therealyou.”

I do my best to emphasize the word real, hoping he’ll confess, but he doesn’t. He simply suggests we get dressed and get started on breakfast.

We’re nowat the big Christmas Day pool party. Santa is doing his best to bounce around, even though I think he’s nearing ninety-five at this point. It’s been the same man playing Santa for as long as my grandmother has lived here.

Every single elderly woman here has danced with Trey in his adorable Santa hat. Somehow, he makes Santa sexy, something I never thought I’d consider. I suddenly want to do him in nothing but that hat.

He’s happily indulged the enamored women of this community, and he happens to be an amazing dancer.

I look around. Despite the warm temperature, this place truly embodies the Christmas spirit. Not only did the community spare no expense when it came to their Christmas décor, but it’s full of smiles and holiday cheer.

I can’t help but laugh to myself at the line of women waiting to dance with my man. Apparently when my grandmother learned late last night that Trey was flying in, she told her friends not to acknowledge who he is. Half the people in this community are originally from New York. All of them would have known right away but are playing along.

We had such a fun morning cooking together. He’s shockingly talented in the kitchen. The french toast was the best I’ve ever had in my life. And then we made Christmas cookies. He was such a natural at it, clearly taking joy in working in the kitchen and in spending time with me.

He fed me, doted on me, touched me, kissed me, and loved me. It’s truly like a dream. One I’m afraid will morph into a nightmare.

Grammy Jane stands next to me as we watch Trey twirl Happy around the poolside dance floor with a huge smile on his face, though not as big as the one on Happy’s face.

She rubs my arm. “He’s wonderful.”

“I know.”

“He’s in love with you.”

“I know.”

“You’re falling in love with him.”

I close my eyes. “I know. I don’t understand. It’s all happened so quickly.”

“I knew the moment I met your grandfather. When it’s the right one, you know.”

“But he’s still lying to me about who he is.”

“I suspect he has his reasons. I think it’s time to confront him. I’d say you need to do so before you get in too deep, but you’re already there, sweetheart.”

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