Page 51 of Doctor I Do

“You don’t have to. That wasn’t part of the agreement.”

“I know, but the thought of you alone in my house doesn’t sit well with me.”

I don’t answer. I don’t know what to say.

Is he meant to care about me this much?

No. Not at all, because this wasn’t part of our agreement.

But do I like that he cares about me? It blurs a line that was disintegrating anyway, and I know it will be dangerous since more time with him is tempting…

“Aw, look at you two. The perfect pair.”

I jerk, turning to my mother’s voice. My heart races. Do we look like we’re on a date?

Reading her face, I can tell she’s delighted. Her pouty lips are coated in her favorite plum lipstick, and she’s in a navy Chanel dress and matching navy heels. She steps back to stand beside my dad, who finishes shaking Alex’s hand. My eyes move to Alex, and he doesn’t seem fazed they interrupted.

Waving her polished, delicate hand in the air, it’s her way of getting him to say hello to her. Not subtle at all. I smile and watch the exchange.

Alex’s attention on my parents is comforting. Even if it’s all going to end soon, and he’ll be back to his playboy ways. I’ll treasure moments like these.

“Hi, Mrs. Adams.”

He rises to give her a kiss on the cheek, and I shake my head at how charming he is. I don’t miss the way my mom's face lights up. He makes everyone fall for him. Meeting my eyes, he winks. I peer over at Dad, and I’m surprised to find a relaxed face.

Maybe finding us out on a date was a great thing. Cementing to them it’s in fact real.

We’re real.

However, breaking up this fake relationship will be hard if my parents grow attached.

This is becoming more of a mess.

I grab some water. And then I rise to Mom.

“He’s better than any pick I had for you,” she gushes.

My lips twitch at her confession. She’s happy with a choice I’ve made. Finally.

“He’s a good man.” My eyes move to him talking to my dad.

I wonder what they’re discussing since I’ve been talking to mom.

I’m going to guess, work, golf, or me. No matter what it is, I’m humbled that he’s trying with my dad.

They end up joining us for a while. I step closer. My dad is discussing their business.

Error.

Soon-to-be majority my business.

“She’ll make the best CEO. I have no doubt—”

Alex’s compliment, and the earnest way he says it, makes me shy…yet also giddy.

“All right, you two, stop talking about me and let me get back to my date.”

Alex puts his arm around me and pulls me close to him. He peers down with fire in his eyes. Yeah, the tension between us keeps building, making all these moments more intense.

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