Page 39 of Just One Fake Date

“That’s not enticing, Mom. Very few people look forward to being interrogated.”

“Don’t be ridiculous. We’rewelcoming.”

“You’re overwhelming, not just in numbers but in enthusiasm.”

“We’re supportive.”

Ty left that one alone, but his mom didn’t notice.

“I can’t wait to hear what Paige has to say when they meet. You know, she’s just a good judge of character and I’m so curious about the house in Flatbush. Is it a new house?”

Ty straightened at the implication of his mom’s words. “Paige is not coming with Derek to the house,” he said with finality, hoping he could ensure his sister didn’t.

“Well, why not?” His mom laughed as Ty’s lips set. “It’s a perfect opportunity...”

“No, it’s not. That would be a reallyreallybad idea.”

“Tyler, you are too protective of the women in your life. I’m sure Shannyn will be thrilled to meet Paige and Ethan...”

“Shannyn might request a quote on her roof from Derek,” Ty said, interrupting his mother. “If she does, it’s business. It is not social.”

“Well, it could be social, dear.”

Ty realized he would have to play hardball. “If Paige tags along with Derek, if and when Shannyn asks him for a quote on her roof, I won’t even tell Shannyn about the bridal shower.”

His mom was startled to momentary silence. “But she must already know.”

“No. We haven’t talked about it, because I know how busy she is. I don’t want her to feel like she’s letting me down and I don’t want to give her any stress about my family. I had this crazy idea that we could just see each other for a while.”

His mom missed his sarcasm. She sighed. “But it would be so nice if Paige met her first.”

“No. It would be complicated. It might make Shannyn feel as if she had to hire Derek to replace her roof. It’s very early, Mom, and I won’t have you all jumping in to smother Shannyn.”

His mom thought about that for three seconds. “But Tyler...”

If there had ever been a moment in Ty’s life to possess impressive negotiating skills, this was it. He interrupted his mom. “If Paige tags along, I’ll make sure you don’t meet Shannyn until Katelyn’s wedding.”

“Tyler!”

“Your choice, Mom. You’re one of the only people Princess Paige listens to.” He shook his head. “That’s more than three weeks away. I won’t tell you anything more about her either.”

He heard his mom inhale sharply. “If I convince Paige to stay away, will you bring Shannyn to the bridal shower next weekend?” At moments like this, Ty often wondered which parent had given him innate negotiating skills.

“I’ll invite her. I can’t promise more.”

His mom was obviously torn between having Paige’s impressions quickly and the chance to make her own conclusions later. “And Katelyn’s little show?”

“No.”

“You’re not being fair, Tyler.”

“I’m being very fair.”

“It must be serious for you to be so determined to defend Shannyn. How long have you been seeing each other?”

“Not very long.”

“Then it’s getting serious quickly!” his mom cried with delight. “Oh, Tyler, I’m so pleased...”

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