Page 49 of The Valentine's Bet

“Are you sure you’re just friends?”

“Mom, if you knew him, you’d understand. He was just trying to make me feel better aboutnotgetting kissed.”

“Hmm. That seems a little suspect to me.”

“Don’t use that phrase.” I giggle. “That’s so weird.”

“What? Why? I heard it used on a TV show your dad and I watched. I thought it was hilarious—and catchy. You know, suspect.”

“Okay, seriously. He’s not a suspect.” I burst into a fit of laughter. “Please stop.”

“You know I love you, Amy. And I want you to be happy—and I want you to find love, but can you promise me something?”

I pause, noting the serious tone in her voice. “What’s that?”

“You’ve always been a hopeless romantic, and I love that about you. But promise me you won’t ever get so caught up in searching for the big, grand gestures that you miss the little things. Sometimes, love doesn’t come in big ways on a white horse. It’s not always someone taking your breath away the moment you meet them. Sometimes, love is in the small, everyday things. Sometimes the little things are the most special.”

I smile. “Okay, Mom. I promise. But I probably should go. I’m going to a singles ice-skating event tonight.”

“Oh ... another one of those?”

“Yeah, but I’m going with a group of friends,” I say quickly, knowing she’s not the biggest fan of singles events. She watcheswaytoo many crime documentaries.

“Well, have fun, and please be safe.”

“I will. Love you.”

We hang up, and I let out a sigh.

Don’t overlook the little things. Got it.

I step out of the elevator and into the lobby of my apartment building, searching for Parker. He sent me a text letting me know he’d be waiting for me down here since he has someone with him, which I’m assuming is Weston.

But the moment my eyes land on him, I stop...

Who’s that?

I take in the sight of a blonde woman standing beside him. She’s got to be nearly six foot, and she’s not even wearing heels. Her hair is braided to the side beneath her beanie, and when she turns around to face me, I realize she’s ...gorgeous.

He has a date...

“Hey.” Parker gives me a wave, and I break my eyes away from the woman beside him. My stomach suddenly feels like it’s in my chest.

“Hi,” I say, forcing a smile and heading over to them. I suddenly feelveryshort in their presence, but I try to ignore it.

Parker eyes me and then gestures to the woman beside him. “This is Brittany...” He pauses. “Mysister.”

My brows shoot up—and my stomach settles back into its rightful place. Which is a bit silly, considering Idon’thave feelings for Parker.

And Idefinitelywasn’t jealous...

“It’s super nice to meet you, Brittany.” I extend my hand. “I’m Amy.”

“Nice to meet you, Amy,” Brittany greets me. AndthenI see it. She has his nose, eyes, and lips. “I’ve heard a lot about you. Well, that’s kind of a lie. I really haven’t, but Parker acted super nervous on the way over here, and now I know why. You’re totally beautiful.”

I blush. “Thank you. You’re gorgeous.”

“Okay, don’t make this weird.” Parker huffs, rolling onto his heels. “Amy and I are just friends. I told you about our bet.” He gives his sister a pointed look.

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