Page 18 of The Valentine's Bet

“It was a soccer player, but yeah, same difference.”

“Basically.” Weston’s eyes drift back to his phone.

I take the chance to peer over at Amy, who’s still googly-eyed and focused on the guy across from her. His eyes are focused on her, too, but it’s not the same starry-eyed look. He looks ... thoughtful, and I wonder if he likes the way she crinkles her nose when she laughs—or if her overzealous positivity is grating on his nerves.

But then helaughs.

It’s a hideous laugh, but it’s still a laugh. Amy’s face lights up like a kid on Christmas morning. She starts giggling, and I take a deep breath.

Why is this bothering me so much?

It’s just because she’s so annoying ... right?

But as I sit here, watching her try so desperately to find a connection, I notice the guy across from her pulling out his phone.

I freeze as he slides it across to her.

Amy types something onto the screen and slides it back.

Her date laughs again and motions for Amy’s phone—and then I assume he typeshisnumber into hers.

My stomach knots up.

Guess she found her connection.

I rip my eyes away from them. It doesn’t matter what she does. I’m not bitter about it ... Right?

Right.

“I think it’s time for me to get out of here,” I say, glancing down at my watch. “I have plans tomorrow.”

“Plans? With who?” Weston asks, setting his phone down on the table.

“Just that 5k.” I chuckle. “Running is never a good time when I’m out late the night before.”

Weston eyes me and then looks over at Amy. “You gonna talk to her before you go?”

My lip curls up. “What? Why would I do that?”

“Well, you keep watching her, and sure, maybe you’re not into her in aromanticway—but you could at least try to be friends with her. She’s new to the city. It’s helpful to make friends. Plus, you were raised here, so you could really show her around.”

I consider it as I slide out of my chair. “I don’t think we get along well enough to be friends.”

Weston shrugs. “Suit yourself. I’ll see ya around.”

I nod to him and then make my way toward the door just as the final buzzer rings through the restaurant. I sigh, stealing one last glance over at Amy. Her date gives her a side hug—which is awkward—and then wanders toward the restroom.

Yeah, that wasn’t a real connection.

However, before I can turn away, Amy meets my gaze...

And then comes bounding over.

Oh no...

No, no...

“Parker!” She waves her hand obnoxiously, her jacket draped over her arm. “I have something to tell you!”

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