Page 88 of Clean Out of Luck

I probably should not have asked that question in front of Wade, but I really want to know the answer.

“You guys have known each other forever. Why would you start dating now?”

It’s a fair point.

“Because he’s hot,” I blurt out and then immediately burst into laughter. Oh, gosh. This is not good. I’m going to hurt Wade’s feelings and make my brother think he’s right to protect his best friend from me.

I’m gasping for air between laughs as I stand. “I’ve got to go wash my face or something. I’ll be back once I’ve composed myself.” I walk down the hall, trying to contain mylaughter. I make it to the bathroom and turn on the fan, then turn on the water. I search the cupboards for a towel or rag or something, but they’re empty.

It’s a bachelor pad stereotype.

I walk back into the hall, planning to ask Wade for a towel when I hear low murmuring voices.

“You didn’t text me and tell me it was official.” That was Phoenix’s voice.

“I’ve been a little busy trying to convince her she should go out with me,” Wade shoots back.

“I honestly didn’t think you two would ever get around to it.” Phoenix chuckles quietly.

“I can’t believe you came in here and acted like you were mad.”

“I told you, we can’t let her know I’m happy about this. She’ll probably break up with you just to spite me,” Phoenix mutters.

I lean forward a little, trying to hear Wade’s response.

“I think I should tell her you are happy about it. I don’t want to start this out with a secret.”

“Bad idea,” Phoenix replies.

“Well…I for sure want her to give us a chance…”

“Exactly. Listen to my advice.”

“But I don’t like the idea of keeping secrets from her, man. I think I should tell her.”

“Not yet!”

Something scrapes, and I spin around to spring back to the bathroom.

Phoenix already knew about us and is pretending to be mad just so that I’ll keep dating Wade.

It’s devious, tricky, and shows no faith in me or my decision-making abilities.

But on the flip side, he’s happy about Wade and me datingand wants to see us stay together. I have been known to be contrary.

No wonder Wade spent so long getting water in the kitchen. He knew Phoenix’s act was a lie.

I shut off the water and walk back to the living room with a big smile on my face.

“I’ve decided I’m not going to argue with you anymore, Phoenix.” I glance at Wade. “Wade and I are dating, and that is that.”

Phoenix tries to frown, but now that I’m watching, I catch the micro smile before he turns it upside down.

“I guess you’re going to do what you want whether I like it or not,” he says with a practiced scowl.

“You bet.” And I might even serve up some petty revenge while I’m at it.

Chapter Twenty-Nine

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