Page 62 of Simply Yours

“Only because it ‘rendered it unusable for consumption,’” Matthew mocked, mimicking Jason’s gruff voice with an exaggerated scowl.

She couldn’t help but snicker. “Okay, that’s fair.”

“Don’t side with him!” Matthew groaned, throwing his hands up. “It was creative! I even put a candle on top.”

Caitlin winced. “Oh boy…”

“Yeah, he really didn’t like it when the ‘cupcake’ caught on fire.”

Her lips parted in horror. “It caught on fire?”

“Lesson learned—no candles. Or substitute candles.”

Caitlin shook her head, rubbing her temples. “So, whatareyou getting him this year?”

Matthew’s expression turned mischievous as he leaned in. “Weed.”

She froze, her jaw dropping. “You didnot.”

“I most certainly did,” he deadpanned. “Several bags of weed and feed for his lawn.”

It took a second for the words to sink in. Then she let out an exasperated groan. “Matthew!”

His laughter erupted, full-bodied and infectious. “What? You didn’t actually think I’d buy my brother pot, did you?” He winked at her, clearly enjoying her reaction.

“You’renot rightin the head.”

Matthew leaned against the truck, arms crossed, a knowing smirk settling on his face. “Andyouare completely out of your mind over him.”

Caitlin stilled, feeling heat creep up her neck. “I am not.”

“Oh, please.” He rolled his eyes. “You’re sweating bullets over a birthday present. Just ask him out to do something fun.”

She let out a humorless laugh. “And what does Jason do for fun?”

“Nothing,” Matthew said bluntly. “So good luck with that.”

She groaned. “You are no help.”

“Sure, I am. I gave you a great suggestion—give him the ol’Vcard. Unless you’ve already done that…” Matthew’s voice trailed off, his grin turning downright evil. “Wait a second. Heishappier around you. Caitlin Barnes—did you and my brother do the nasty?”

Her face burst into flames. “Matthew!”

He clutched his chest in mock horror, gasping dramatically. “Andyouthink I’m terrible for indulging in a little fun.”

“Youareterrible! Andno, I haven’t slept with him.”

Matthew waggled his eyebrows. “I didn’t say anything aboutsleeping.I mentionedsex.”

She groaned, pressing her hands to her face. “Well…Imighthave slept, but it was justsleeping—and we didn’t…”

“What?!” He practically yelped. “Did you and Jasesleep together—likesleep sleep?”

“Can you keep your voice down?” she hissed, glancing around.

“Oh wow…” Matthew exhaled, rubbing a hand over his jaw like he was rethinking everything he knew about his brother. “My brother actually crossed a line.”

“No, he didn’t! It wasperfectlyinnocent.”

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