Page 62 of The Valentine's Bet

And for some reason, that makes my heart sink.

Chapter Nineteen

Amy

“So, how was your lunch with Parker?” Eliza’s voice in my ear is a comfort as I make my way slowly down the street, headed back to the office.

“It was fine,” I comment, not really sure if that’s the truth or not. Honestly, things felt a little ...weird.“Kind of.”

“What do you mean? Did he tell you he likes you?”

I laugh. “Um, no. He made itveryclear that we’re just friends. But I did find out that he lives in NoHo. Which isn’t anywhere close to my place, and I still can’t make sense of why he walked me home thatfirst night.”

“Aw...”

“Don’t,” I stop her before she can run with the thought. “It’s clear he just felt sorryfor me.”

Eliza laughs. “Right.”

I can sense the sarcasm in her voice. “I mean, sure, there are glimpses of a heart beneath all that grump, but he’s made it clear over and over that we’re just friends.” The disappointment in my voice is palpable. And Ifeelsurprisingly very disappointed by it. I don’t even know why.

I’veneverlooked at Parker as more than just a friend ... right?

I’m more conflicted than before. I wasn’t expecting to feel so sad about this.

“Anyway,” I say, changing the subject, “I still have a bet to win, so I found a matchmaking event to go to. I filled out this detailed questionnaire, and then a panel places you with who they think is your best match.”

“You don’t sound excited.”

“I am,” I reason, though I can’t seem to muster much excitement to convince her. “Maybe I’ll finally meet the right person there.”

“Or maybe you should tell Parker you have feelings for him and see what happens first.”

“Eliza,” I say firmly. “It’s not happening with Parker. I mean, yeah, maybe I have a little crush on him ... but it’s probably just because he’s the only guy I’ve ever kissed.”

She’s quiet for a few moments. “I guess you could be right. I’m sorry for pushing you. It’s just that I can tell you like him and don’t want you to miss out...”

“I know, but it’s just a little crush. I’ve had plenty of those over the years. It’s nothing I can’t get over.” My fingers run along my bottom lip as I say the words, my mind filling with the memory of our New Year’s Eve kiss. “I’ll probably meet someone at the matchmaker thing tomorrow night and forget that I ever considered Parker as more than a friend.”

“Okay...” She doesn’t sound very confident.

And that doesn’t make me feel any better.

“It’ll be good.”

“Yes, it will.” Eliza’s voice is much brighter now. “I’m sure you’ll have a great time, and you’re right. You might finally meet that Valentine’s Day boyfriend!”

“Absolutely.” I push through the office building door and make my way up to my floor. “But I’m back at work now, so I’ll call you later.”

“Love you, Amy.”

“Love you.”

Just before I put the phone back in my purse, I check my messages, surprised to see a new text message. My heart flutters in my chest.

Parker:Thanks for meeting me for lunch.

I tilt my head as I read it again, immediately replying and letting him know that I enjoyed it as well. However, it only leaves me feeling more confused.

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