Page 91 of Playful Kris

He laughs, shaking his head. “What I meant to say was that I could drive you, and the time wouldn’t matter because my brother owns it, he could stay open for us.”

Oh, wow. What a knight in shining armor moment.

Suddenly, I’m comparing Damon and Kris. Everything Kris is, Damon is truly the opposite.

“I couldn’t ask you to do that.” But the idea of not having to be so rushed to get there is extremely appealing.

“You didn’t ask.”

He smiles at me, and I catch myself staring at how perfect of a smile it is. But sadly, it’s not doing anything to me the way that Kris’ smile does.

“I offered.”

“If you insist.” I chuckle. “I’d really appreciate not having to break a ton of traffic laws to get there.”

“Say no more.” He gestures toward the parking lot of the fire house.

“Are you off work already?” I ask.

“It’s actually my day off. I was just picking up a few things.”

I nod, following him to his car.

He opens my door, like the perfect gentleman and my mind goes to when Kris opened my door for me during the wedding.

“So, what’s the reason for the trip to the tree farm?” he asks, pulling into traffic.

“Well, you know the Christmas Bazaar kicks off that morning and lasts all day?”

He nods.

“One of the mini events is a tree decorating contest. I was hoping to get a few real trees to make the event a little cozier, and I’m hoping your brother would be interested in donating the trees or at the very least giving me a good discount.”

“I’m sure he would. Kyle is a good dude.” He smiles, looking over at me. “That’s my brother.”

I nod, following along.

“He likes giving back to the community.”

“I’m glad to hear it. I’ve got to nail down all the little details soon or I might just go crazy.” I laugh.

“Maybe in that busy schedule of yours you could find time to fit a date in with me.”

I’m thankful I’m not driving right now, because what just came out of his mouth would surely have me swerving or slamming on the breaks.

I mean, sure I figured he liked me. He made that pretty clear at the Halloween Festival, but… you know what? Maybe it’s me?

Why am I so shocked that someone would want to ask me out?

Why does the fact someonedidask me out shock the hell out of me?

Why am I just staring at him as if he’s grown a third head?

My phone vibrates in my lap, and I nearly throw the damn thing across the cab from shock. Damon chuckles, I’m sure enjoying seeing me so out of sorts.

I hit the answer button without looking down at the screen once I finally have it in my hand.

“Hello,” I say, sounding flustered. I’m sure I’m three different shades of red right now.

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