Page 88 of The Bachelor

Me

Shocked, yes. Unexpected, of course. But I saw more than that, Oaklyn. More than excitement. More than just pleasure.

Oaklyn

Like if there was anyone in the world I wanted to be standing there, it was you?

Me

Yes.

Oaklyn

And that’s just how I felt.

That’s why I can’t get this smile to leave.

Me

I don’t want it to. It looks too beautiful on your face.

Oaklyn

Now, I’m blushing.

Me

Don’t get too red. I don’t want my sister asking any more questions.

Oaklyn

Well, she already knows I’m crushing on someone. When she asks who I’ve been texting—and I’m sure she’s going to—I’ll just tell her it’s him. Mystery Man.

Me

That’s my name, huh?

Oaklyn

For now.

I could easily lead that into a different discussion. A conversation we needed to eventually have.

But that wasn’t going to take place over text.

Me

This Friday, are you free?

Oaklyn

I can be.

Me

I’m going to pick you up at your apartment at 6 p.m.

It’s time for lesson three …