Page 43 of One Wild Wedding Weekend

“It’s a long story.”

“You invited me over here. I think I deserve to hear it. Especially if I’m going to be your straight man for an evening.”

“That’s a terrible joke,” she said, scowling at him.

“But accurate?”

“I’ve met somebody,” she said, trying to keep all emotion out of her voice. “But he’s not an appropriate date for my sister’s big wedding reception.”

Jared stared. “Is he a male escort? A stripper? A drug kingpin?”

“Where would I meet a drug kingpin?”

Jared grinned. “But you thought the first two were feasible?”

“This is serious,” Daley wailed. “Tristan is Tabby’s new brother-in-law. She and John have both warned me he’s unsuitable. I’m guessing Tristan will suggest he and I go together to the reception. I won’t be able to say no to him. That’s why I need you.”

“As a decoy date.”

“Do you mind?” she asked anxiously. “I know this is a big ask.”

“So you’re sleeping with this guy, but you can’t be seen in public with him?”

“Something like that...” She rubbed her temple. “I think I’ve decided not to see him anymore. It’s a dead-end relationship.”

“You think you’ve decided?”

“I’m pretty sure I have. It’s the smart thing to do. But I have to get through this reception thing first.”

“Without succumbing to his manly charms.”

She nodded glumly. “He’s very persuasive, and I’m very susceptible.”

“Okay, kiddo. I’ll do it.”

“You own a tux, right? For all those hospital fundraisers?”

“Yes, ma’am.”

She handed him the invitation. “You keep this. I already know all the details.” She paused. “You’ll be impressed. He’s a lot like you.”

Jared’s smile quirked. “In what way?”

“Charming. Super handsome. Brilliant. In fact, he was premed until his uncle coaxed him into the family business. Actually, Harold is Jason’s and Tristan’s godfather. They’re not related at all.”

“So what does this guy do if he’s not a doctor?”

“He’s the CEO of Lieberman and Dunn.”

Jared frowned. “The company that bought you out?”

“Yes.”

“This sounds fishy as hell. Sure, I’ll go with you, Daley. The guy must be a sleazebag. I’ll protect you.”

“It’s not like that,” she protested. “He’s a decent, wonderful person. But he doesn’t do relationships, and I don’t want to fall for him.”

Jared studied her face. “Is it already too late?”

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