Page 51 of Eleven of a Kind

“Excellent. I’ll pick you up at five-thirty.”

“Are you an on-time guy or a casually late guy?”

“I’m an on-time guy.”

“Perfect. I’ll be ready at five-thirty.”

I set my phone down and cupped my face in my hands.

“Still thinking about Gabriel?” Raj walked in.

“He’s picking me up at five-thirty for dinner.” I looked at him.

“Then what are you waiting for.” He grabbed my hand and pulled me from my chair. “We have to find you something special to wear.” He grinned. “And I know just the outfit.”

* * *

Gabriel

I didn’t plan on texting Piper and asking her to dinner. But I found her interesting, and we really didn’t have a chance to talk last night with my entire family hovering around us. I went upstairs and took a shower. After dressing, I dabbed on some of my cologne.

“Hey, Dad.” Riley walked into the bathroom.

“You’re back.” I smiled and shook my head when I saw all the shopping bags in her hands.

“What? Grandma Barb wouldn’t take no for an answer. Besides, she bought Lily and Ella a lot of stuff too. You’re dressed up, and you put on cologne. Who’s the victim tonight?”

I shot her a look as I walked out of the bathroom and grabbed my watch from the dresser.

“I don’t appreciate you asking that.”

“Fine. Who is the lovely woman you’re going to lie to tonight?” She grinned.

“I think a grounding is in order.”

“Okay.” She threw herself down on my bed. “Who is the lucky lady that has the pleasure of your wonderful company tonight, Dad?”

“You smartass.” I smiled. “I’m taking Piper to dinner.”

“Really?” Her brows furrowed as she sat up.

“Yes, really. Are you okay with that?”

“Sure. I like Piper a lot. She’s really cool. Did you sleep with her last night?”

“Riley!”

“I’m not stupid, Dad.” She rolled her eyes. “You lied about being at the brew house and didn’t get home until after midnight. Now, you’re seeing her again.” A soft smile crossed her lips.

“We didn’t really have a chance to talk last night at the brew house with the whole family there.”

“And you didn’t have a chance to talk when you went back to her place either, right?” She cocked her head.

“That is none of your business.” I pointed at her. “You shouldn’t even be talking like that to me. I’m your father.”

“So. Mom and I talked about sex all the time with each other.”

My heart dipped to my stomach.

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