Page 26 of How To Fake A Fiancé

Things got better though, when I met Jake and Jonathan. They stumbled into the bar one rainy night, we got to talking, and we all quickly became friends. They eventually found out about my family’s situation, so they helped bring in business until I could get back on my feet. I don’t know where I or the Brick would be without their support.

I set down a glass of scotch and a glass of vodka when I notice both men are dressed in their usual work attire. “What brings you into work on the weekend?” I ask.

“Last minute touching up before we pitch this upcoming product,” Jake groans before downing the glass of vodka and turning to Jonathan’s direction. “How soon can I get this fucking monkey suit off me?”

Jonathan sits beside him, nursing the scotch. “Believe me, I’d rather be at home with my girl unpacking boxes than this shit.”

They both look worn down, their ties loose around their necks.

“Sorry about that, y’all,” I sympathize.

“Better to have business than no business at all.” Jonathan downs the rest of his drink.

I nod in agreement. “I’ll be right back and get y’all another round.”

I pocket another customer’s bill and tip when the landline next to the cash register rings. I pick up the phone.

“Thanks for calling the Brick. This is Ian. How can I help you?”

“Is this Ian Brown?” I hear a woman’s soft voice coming from the other end.

“Yes, ma’am, that’s me.” Do I know this woman or something?

“Oh, thank goodness. I was worried I called the wrong bar.”

“How can I help you, ma’am?” Despite the odd conversation, I maintain my professionalism.

“I’m sorry, let me explain myself. I’m Kami’s mom.”

I stand there frozen in utter astonishment.Of all the people that could have called…

“Oh, hi, Mrs. Hernandez. How are you?” What the fuck do I say? It’s not every day the mother of the woman I’m pursuing calls me at work.

I notice Jake and Jonathan looking my way, their facial expressions similar to mine: confused, surprised, and curious.

How does she know me, or that I know her daughter? How is she calling me? More importantly, why?

“Better now that I’m talking to my daughter’s mystery man. I swear, that girl barely tells me anything.”

Her what?

Did I hear what I think I just heard? Her mystery man? No. That can’t be right. Her mystery man doesn’t exist.

As I work to gather my words and tell this woman the truth I stop myself.

What if I didn’t have to?

Since Kami had walked into my bar, I’ve been trying to get her to hear me out to no avail. Maybe…this is the next best thing.

Kami would kill me if I played along and claimed myself as her boyfriend. Yet I’m faced with too many reasons not tonotdo it.

Offering myself as a fake boyfriend to the curly-haired bombshell not only keeps her lie to her family intact, but it also gives her the chance to get to know the real me. Sure, it’d be against her will, but it’s for both our benefit.

This is almost too perfect.

“So that’s what she’s calling me?” I laugh as I turn on the charm. “I have to say, I’m flattered. I apologize we haven’t had a chance to talk sooner. Kami wanted to be sure our relationship was serious, and I imagine you know how stubborn she can be.”

“Oh, yes. Stubborn as a mule just like her father. Exactly where she got her cynicism, I have no idea.”

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