Page 52 of Cocky Choices: Zoe Cocker

“Right, no peonies,” I echo, my mind racing with ideas that have nothing to do with flowers. “Roses? Or maybe some white orchids? I want to make sure everything looks perfect for him.”

“My mother doesn’t like orchids.”

“Too spindly?” I offer.

“Right.”

“That makes sense. I love them.” I motion toward my bathroom, “I have quite a few in there because the window is frosted so they get sunlight but not too much.” I pause. “Sorry, you don’t need to know how orchids work.”

“I’m interested.”

Shaking my head, I call him out, “You’re trying to be interested. It’s okay. I’ve seen that look before. A lot. And it’s okay, really! But what I meant to say is that on dinner tables, that’s not a look I’d prefer to use for a huge event such as this. I was just thinking aloud.”

Caleb shrugs, “Maybe we can have them for our wedding.”

I blink. “I wanted wildflowers for that, remember?”

“I remember.” He dips his chin in a sexy nod. “Just thought I’d jump on the orchid train since you were interested in teaching me about them.”

Relaxing, I walk to the couch, and freeze. “I’m a terrible host! Can I get you some water or juice or something?”

“Not thirsty.”

“Okay.” I cross to the couch, wishing I was as self-assured as he is.

From where he leans on the wall, Caleb watches me. “Did you offer water and juice because you know I won’t drink alcohol?”

Moving my blanket, I sit down. “I don’t have alcohol.”

“You don’t?”

Ralphie jumps onto my lap, eager for a pet and I happily oblige, grateful for the comfort he naturally brings. “I don’t have any.”

“No beer or anything?”

“Nothing.”

“I thought everyone had some kind of alcohol in their home.”

“Is that how it is with your friends?”

“And my father’s friends.”

I shrug, “I’m high on life.”

Caleb stares at me for a few long moments, and crosses to the couch. “Okay, for the flowers, I’m leaving it to you. The colors for the event are white and gold. It’s white-tie.” Caleb sits down beside me with the grace of the very wealthy, and his dark eyes lock onto me with a confidence that makes my heart race.

“White tie? My parents want to meet you. Sorry! I blurted that. But…they do.” Quietly I add, “They’re really excited about the wedding.”

Caleb’s brow furrows slightly over a smirk, “That’s a lie, isn’t it?”

I cover my face. “Yes!”

“It’s okay. I’m not surprised.”

“They’re worried sick!”

He touches my hands and draws them down, leaning closer to look me in the eye. “It’s okay, Zoe. We can handle it, together. When do they want to meet me?”

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