Page 28 of The Baby Bargain
Ariel: Have you?
Chase: Have I?
Ariel: Slept with anyone since Grace?
Chase: No.
Ariel: Why not?
Chase: Because I was waiting for a stranger to ask me to knock her up.
I can't help my chuckle. It does sound absurd like that.
Ariel: I knew it.
Chase: Yeah, it's too bad I already know you.
Ariel: I could end your blue balls.
Chase: I'll live.
Ariel: What's the real reason?
Chase: Why do you want someone you know?
Ariel: I want it to be special.
I stare at the cell, waiting for a response. It's his turn now. He needs to offer his reason.
Why hasn't Chase been with anyone since his ex?
He must have opportunities. A lot. Holden acts like any guy who doesn't mow through women is an idiot. But Chase is smart. And he's certain he's making the right choice.
There must be a reason. Something he's waiting for.
Chase: Like your first time?
I press my lips together. I can ask. Demand an answer. Or I can let him change the subject.
I want to know.
I want to know more about him.
But I'm the one asking him a favor. It's not the time to pry.
Ariel: No. Not like that. Ow.
Chase: I haven't heard this story.
Ariel: Of course not. You're friends with the enemy.
Chase: The enemy?
Ariel: Forest.
Chase: Your brother is your enemy?
Ariel: My brother would like to imagine I'm a virgin. Or at least that I only sleep with geeky doctors.
