Page 51 of Matchmaking the Rival

I checked my phone before I brushed my teeth, after I brushed my teeth, before I combed my hair, and after I combed my hair, and yet I heard nothing from him.

Hmm, perhaps he isn't an early riser. Or, I thought to my horror,maybe he changed his mind. Maybe last night he was caught in a whirl of—

Oh, stop it, Meredith. Just accept it. This is happening.

Even though I had no clue whatthiswas, I was still in a fantastic mood and checked my phone about twelve more times before I left my apartment.

It beeped for the first time when I was in the subway on the way to the office. It was a rainy morning, and I hadn’t felt like walking. I didn't even know I had a signal, but I got an alert that said I had a message from Cade. I was so happy that I let out a very unladylike snort. Then I groaned because it turned out I didn't have a signal. I'd never gotten this notification before now: "Unable to display a message." Yeah, I had zero bars. Once I reached my station, I raced out onto the street.

In the lobby, I rested against the wall, nestled out of the way and read the message.

Cade: Good morning, Meredith. What time are we going to your parents’ house tonight?

My heart was beating fast. I texted back so quickly that I nearly broke a nail, then waited until I pressed Send.

Don't seem too eager, Meredith.I drew in a deep breath and then exhaled through my nose.Is ten seconds enough? Fifteen? Whatever.

I pressed Send.

Meredith: We aren’t. My parents forbid me to stop by to help tonight because we stayed so late there yesterday.

I held my breath, counting to... Yep, he replied four seconds later.

Cade: Then tell me when you finish work and I'll pick you up.

Meredith: For what?

Cade: You'll see.

Meredith: Cade!

Cade: Do you trust me, Meredith?

This time I didn't hesitate before replying.

Meredith: Yes.

Cade: Then text me when you're done with work.

Oh, this man.I didn't refuse because I knew he was even more stubborn than I was.

I headed to the elevators, smiling like a fool.

Cade: Wear something warm.

Damn. I could’ve used the warning before leaving home. At least my coat's thick. But where could he be taking me?

I considered the possibilities. It had to be somewhere outdoors, since he'd suggested I dress warm. The Christmas markets weren't open yet. There were plenty of autumn festivals, although I wasn’t familiar with any of them. Maybe a walk in a botanical garden? I had no idea.

Just let the man surprise you, Meredith.

I stayed at the office until 6:55 p.m. before bolting out the door. I was alone in our office, as Sonya didn't believe in working late nights.

I went to my favorite Starbucks, debating whether I should move on from pumpkin spice lattes to eggnog lattes. No. I had to pace myself. I didn't want to start celebrating Christmas so early.

After buying my drink, I waited outside. A BMW pulled up in front of me. It was Cade. He opened his door to get out, but I yelled over the noise in the street, "No, don't bother. I'll just jump in the car."

I literally ran toward it, making sure not to slosh my latte anywhere. Even with a plastic lid, you could never be too careful. Getting in the car, I took a slurp before saying, "Hey."

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