Page 20 of More Than a Blind Date

His hands are noticeably absent from my back, and I pull away so that I can see his face. Mild panic is swirling in his eyes.

“It just all worked out.” He rubs his face, then reaches for the handle.

I retreat to my seat. “I didn’t mean to accost you. I’m just so excited.”

He jingles keys. “She said I could show you around. But we need to make sure the cats don’t escape.”

Before he slides out of the truck, I clasp his hand. “I’m sorry I hugged you. And if you prefer that I stop hugging you andholding your hand, just say the word. We can be fake engaged without being touchy-feely.”

Dallas pinches his lips, then shakes his head. “Don’t stop any of that. It just caught me off guard.”

He unlocks the door, then pushes it open for me to enter. Two orange tabbies come running.

“Hello, pretty kitties. What are your names?”

Dallas takes off his cowboy hat. “Chip and Dale.”

I snort laugh, which isn’t a good look. “Sorry. But that’s funny. I’d ask if they are named after the cartoon characters or the dancers, but since these cats aren’t wearing clothes, I’m guessing they’re named after the dancers.” I wiggle my hips to illustrate the last word.

“Correct. As soon as you meet my aunt, you’ll understand.” Dallas points down the hall. “Want to tour the bedroom first?”

I follow him through the house, and by the time we get back to the living room, my excitement has withered. “As much as I appreciate that you talked to your aunt and everything, I know I can’t afford this place. I’m sorry you went to all that trouble.”

He steps closer and takes my hand. “You can afford it.”

“Dallas, places like this rent for way more than my housing budget. I’ve saved up some money, but that’s a short-term solution.” I hate feeling trapped where I am, but I have to be realistic.

Rubbing his jaw, he steps away. “I know you want to be independent. Not dependent on your parents. Living here will help you do that. Do you like this house?”

“It’s beautiful. I’d live here in a heartbeat, but…”

He marches to me and threads the fingers of one hand into my hair. “Please, Rose, let me help you.”

Now the pieces are coming together. Dallas intends to make up the difference of whatever I can’t afford.

I lean into his hand. “I can’t let you do that.”

“No strings. I expect nothing in return.” That protective edge is back in his voice.

And as much as I hate feeling like I’m in someone’s debt, deep inside, I know I can trust Dallas. “Okay. But only if you make me a promise.”

“What’s that?”

“If I become a financial burden, we’ll figure out another solution.”

He nods. “Deal.”

We stare at each other, trapped in the moment. He’s so close that I can feel his breath on my skin.

Then I inch forward and touch my lips to his.

One hand still in my hair, he tugs me closer, and his other arm circles my waist.

Now we have Chip and Dale completely believing that we’re engaged.

My bliss is cut short when he breaks away. “Sorry, I shouldn’t have done that. We don’t have to fake it here.”

“You didn’t do anything wrong. I kissedyou.”

---