Page 41 of Perfect Pact

“They were for our first responders, Beth. What did you want me to do?”

“You are incredible!” she shouts.

“So I’ve heard.”

“Just let me use the driveway. I need it so the lumber yard can deliver some supplies.”

“Deal!”

“Really?” She seems shocked by my response.

“Of course. Dinner tonight?”

“Not this again.”

“I could say the same thing.” I run a hand through my hair, pushing back the water from dripping into my eyes.

“Listen, Beth,” I place a hand on her shoulder, “there are only two solutions: go on a date with me or get your own driveway.”

“I tried. It will take months to get them out here.”

“I know.” I wink.

I didn’t have anything to do with that. There’s a list of landowners waiting for culverts to get put in. She has to wait her turn like anyone else, but she doesn’t need to know that.

“What in the hell, Dusty? What did you do?”

“Nothing.” I run a hand over my new beard. I hadn’t planned to grow it out, but she seems to like it, so I kept it.

“Don’t you think you’re going to work your bearded charmer skills on me. I’m immune.” She sighs.

“I wasn’t.”

“FMN,” she whispers. “Fine. I’ll go.”

Wait. What?

I thought it would take a few more days, maybe even weeks, to wear her down. I had such a long list of people who needed pastries. But I can’t let her know she threw a wrench into plans by caving so early. She can’t know I’ve been looking forward to this moment since I walked in and spotted her at Java Jitters.

“What’s that?” I hold my hand behind my ear and lean in.

“I said I’ll go.”

“No, the other thing—FMN” I motion between us. “Fuck my neighbor?”

Her eyes go wide. “Hell no!”

“Are you sure about that?”

“Yes! FMN—fuck my night, okay?”

“If you say so. Have fun watering your goats!” I leave her out there thinking about the little lie she just told herself—and me.

I lift my t-shirt over my head before turning and walking up to the house. I could have sworn I heard her moan.

“Be ready at six!” I remind her as I’m about to walk into the house.

“No dinner. Just drinks.”

I spin around so I can see her reaction when the reality of what’s happening smacks her in the face.

“It’s a date!”

Her mouth drops open and snaps shut.

“Not a date. A pact.”

“A perfect pact.”

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