Page 60 of Falling for Love

She laughed, catching the towel and tossing it back. “Alright, Mr. Perfect…so repeat the plan.”

“Keep showing up,” I said simply. “Be there for her and Hayden. Let her see that I’m not going anywhere.”

Fifi nodded approvingly. “Solid plan. Just don’t give up. A girl like Evie might get distracted.”

I rolled my eyes but couldn’t help smiling. “Thanks for the advice, Dr. Love.”

“Anytime,” she said, hopping off the counter. “Now, wish me luck on my date. I’ll report back on the calves.”

“Good luck,” I said, shaking my head as she swept out of the kitchen.

The room was quiet again, and I let out a long breath, my mind wandering back to Evie. As I was about to head back to help with the muffins, my phone buzzed on the counter. I picked it up, and my heart slightly jumped when I saw her name.

Hey, just wondering… any plans tonight? Hayden wants me to make his famous spaghetti. Thought you might like to join us.

I stared at the screen, a grin spreading across my face.

No, way. No freaking way.

I quickly typed.

Famous spaghetti? How could I say no to that? What time?

Her response came almost immediately.

Whenever you’re free.

I smiled and shook my head, writing as I grinned.

I’m absolutely free. I’ll bring dessert. See you then.

I set my phone down, unable to wipe the stupid grin off my face. Dinner with Evie and Hayden?

This was huge.

Because, for once, it wasn’t my idea.

As I grabbed my jacket and keys, I couldn’t help but think that maybe, just maybe, this thing with Evie was heading somewhere. And for the first time in a long time, I felt like I might be on the right track.

Chapter Fourteen

Evie

I stood in front of my closet, staring at the rows of shirts and jeans like they might magically transform into something date-worthy if I waited long enough. Tonight wasn’t even technically a date. It was spaghetti at my house with Hayden and Liam.

Super casual, right?

And he was probably going to be here any second.

So why was I standing here, debating what to wear like some teenager getting ready for prom?

“Alright,” I muttered to myself. “Something nice but not too nice. Casual but not boring. Cute but not trying too hard.”

I tugged at the hem of my worn flannel shirt, wondering whether I should swap it for something more… polished. But polished wasn’t really my style. My wardrobe consisted mostly of flannels, jeans, and T-shirts—practical clothes for a life spent wrangling horses and chasing after a seven-year-old. None of it screamed look at me, I’m irresistible.

And why was I even worried about being irresistible? This wasn’t a date. It was just dinner. Spaghetti. With Liam.

Liam.

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