Page 98 of Not Dating Material

I chuckle. “Calm down, papa bear. He wasn’t being mean—he’s just super up-front, and I like that. Anyway, we worked out this thing where we’d go on pretend dates and I’d act like I normally do on them, and he’d point out all the ways I was going wrong so I could get better for real dates.”

“Oh, did he?” Dad asks dryly, clearly not impressed.

“I promise, he’s super sweet about it. He’s been keeping up his end of the deal, and it doesn’t make me feel bad. In fact, it’s kinda funny, some of the things he’s pointed out to me, like duh. And also, I like spending time with him. Even though he’s been through a lot, he’s special. Deep. I wish I could wrap him up in cotton wool and protect him from mean things.”

Dad doesn’t comment at first, but when he does— “Molly … you like this guy.”

How is that what he’s focused on after everything I’ve told him? “And?”

“And I don’t want you getting yourself into another mess.”

“A mess?”

“This guy obviously has a thing for Xander, and you’re developing feelings for him anyway.”

“You don’t understand.”

“Don’t I?” His voice hitches. “You did this with Ford as well. Convinced yourself there was something there when there wasn’t. I love you. So much. I don’t want to see you get hurt again.”

My insides turn to lead as I try not to cry. “So glad we had this chat.”

“Come on, Mols, that’s not fair.”

“Uh-huh. I have to go.”

“Molly—”

I hang up, anger tearing through me.

Not necessarily because Dad is wrong—except about Xander—but because I think he might be painfully, painfully right.

Chapter 27

SEVEN

Molly:

Hello.

I’m working.

What are you doing?

Heard about Xander.

:( :( :(

I hope he’s okay.

Message me when you get this.

Wanna date this weekend?

I’m bored.

Xander still isn’t home, sad face.

I miss you guys.

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