Page 30 of The Opposite of Romance
“I get that.”
“What, not being able to get enough of me?” He gives me a playful wink, and I’m quiet for a second, struggling to form words.
When my brain finally connects to my tongue, I manage to say, “I meant they probably noticed your incredible work ethic. Speaking of which, I’ll let you get back to work.” It’s not the smoothest escape I ever did, but I guess it can pass.
“Tell Asher he can come keep me company whenever he wants to,” he calls after me.
I nod in response, still a bit dazed, both from the flirty remark and his acceptance of Asher. I’m used to having to tone Asher down for other people. He’s amazing, don’t get me wrong, but he can be a lot. And not everyone likes that. Even David, his own father, couldn’t handle it sometimes. He would get nervous, and I’d distract Asher with something in another room, to keep the house peaceful.
I join Olivia on the blankets, and we read our books, enjoying the sunny weather. I can’t wait for the deck to be done so we can enjoy the pool, too.
It’s finally taking shape. Logan is making good progress on raising the platforms, but being that he’s doing it on his own, it’s a miracle he got this far.
“I’m going to make us some lunch. You need anything?” I ask Olivia.
“Nope. Hey, Mom. Can Kayla come over tomorrow?” she calls after me.
“Sure. I mean, I need to check with her dad, but it’s fine with me.”
“Thanks.” She shoots me a demure smile.
Putting some chicken strips in the oven, I pull up my phone, opening a text thread with Will.
Me
Hi. Olivia asked if Kayla could come over tomorrow. I don’t know if you have any plans, but we would love to have you. Both of you.
I smile to myself, happy with my courage.
Will
Sounds great, but unfortunately, I have some things to do tomorrow. Kayla could still come, if that’s ok. She’ll be thrilled.
Me
Of course.
Will
And if you’re free next weekend, I’d love to take you out on that date we talked about. If you’re interested, of course.
Another smile blooms on my face.
Me
I’d like that.
The age gap billionaire was a miss, but I prefer small town single dads, anyway.
Chapter Thirteen
“Love you guys! Have fun,”I yell after the car when David takes Liv and Ash back to Seattle for his weekend with them.
Like always, a stab of sadness hits my chest as I watch them drive off, but I’m slowly getting used to it. And I know they appreciate time with their dad.
Tonight, I won’t have time to dwell on it, either way, because I have a date to get ready for. Sandy offered to come, but I told her no. I don’t want to put pressure on it, considering how the last date turned out.
Still, a rush of adrenaline surges through me as I straighten my flowery dress. It’s new and I love it. It covers most of my problem areas like, of course, the belly, and shows off the parts I like, like my collarbone.
