Page 43 of Fake Dating in Half Moon Bay

She laughed. “Oh dear. I’ve heard stories about your family and fighting. You patched up Jacob, who would patch you up?” She couldn’t resist teasing him.

“Ha. Ha. Very funny. It would be Jeremy that needed stitches, not me.” He flexed his muscles.

She giggled. “Why aren’t you at work?” It was just after his usual lunch break.

“I stopped by to see if you’d like to go for dinner tonight.” His smile was pure charm. On anyone else it would be just a smile. From Zander, it warmed her to her toes.

“Of course. I’d love to. But you could have texted me.”

“But then I wouldn’t get to see your beautiful face and steal a couple kisses.”

He leaned over and kissed her so hard and deeply that she nearly dropped her mocha. The man had talented lips. “Mm. I’m glad you did.” She clasped his hand and leaned back in her chair. There was something so incredibly warm and relaxing about sitting and watching the ocean while holding the hand of the man you loved. She could stay here forever.

Whoa! Love? Did she love him?

Her heart panicked for a second, and after a very long moment, settled down to enjoy the feeling. She did love him! But was it enough to go forward seriously? Was she ready for a long-term commitment? Was she jumping the gun? She told her mind to shut up and enjoy the feeling.

“I also had an ulterior motive for swinging by,” he said quietly.

A gust of wind blew salty spray in her face. She sipped her drink and licked whipped cream off her lip before saying, “Oh? Should I be worried?”

“Maybe,” he hedged. “I need a favor.”

“Sure. What can I do?”

“Don’t be so quick to agree.” His pause was dramatic. “I need help on the long weekend. I’m working with the local shelter, Homes for Hounds. We’re bringing batches of animals to the inn for adoption. We need more hands.”

“I’m already cooking and serving. That’s why I’m out here. I was planning my menu and organizing event staff. I’m not sure I have time for anything else. Sorry.”

“Jacob and Derrick said the inn will pay for extra help in the kitchen for part of the day so you can come save some critters. It’s one of their contributions to the event.”

“The inn is hosting, providing electricity, giving tours. I’m prepping food for a fully booked inn. Three meals a day. I’m on the hook for cookies, cupcakes, and muffins. I’m not sure I can fit you in.” Honestly, she didn’t want to. She’d gradually adjusted to King being around but was still wary of him. But other dogs? Nope. Cats. Nope. She didn’t want any part of that.

“I can’t believe you’d even ask me,” she said. “You know I’m terrified of cats and not a huge fan of dogs.” King raced up the hill toward her, she reared back. He careened to a stop and dropped his head on her lap. Every muscle in her body went tense.

“King, sit,” Zander commanded, and the massive beast dropped to his backside. “I know you’re uncertain, but all the animals will be in pens. I need someone for paperwork and to accept donations. I’ve got a ton of high school kids to help with the animals. I need an adult for paperwork. You don’t need to touch any animal.”

That might be okay, but what if an animal got out? What if someone wanted her to hold their new pet. “I don’t know .…”

“I swear, it will work out. Half the town is busy with this event. We want to put on a good show for the tourists. You’re my last hope.”

Ugh. The desperation card. Why did it feel so much like the guilt card? “Fine. But I’m not getting close to any animal. Paperwork only.”

“Thank you.” Gratitude rang in his words. “You won’t regret it.”

Somehow, she doubted that, but being in a relationship meant compromises and this cause was important to him.

His phone rang. He looked at her and winced before he answered it. “Hi, Mom.” He was quiet for several minutes, though he did nod his head as if his mother could see him. Finally, he said, “I’ll be right there. Bye, Mom.”

He looked apologetic as he hung up. “I’ve got to run. Mom needs some stuff out of the attic.” He paused with an odd look on his face, like he wanted to say something. He stood and patted his leg to get King’s attention. “I’ll pick you up at your place at seven, if that works for you.”

“Fine.” She didn’t know how to ask if what his mother needed was important and knew the annoyance showed in her voice.

His look was quizzical, like he knew she wasn’t fine. “Later then,” he said after a long pause.

She stared at the ocean torn between being pleased that he came to visit her and being annoyed that he rushed off. His ulterior motive wasn’t exactly heart touching either.

♥♥♥

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