Page 46 of The Friend Situation

“No, no need for that. Thank you for accommodating me and mydate.”

“Anytime. I’ll also deliver another drink if you’d like.”

I nod, and the server quickly walks away with my plate. Carlee focuses on me as I toss back my remaining bourbon. She ignores my date comment.

“You didn’t have to send it back. I’d have survived.” She sets down her fork and places her hands in her lap, politely waiting for my plate to return.

“They’ll be quick. Continue, please. Don’t allow your food to get cold on my behalf,” I offer.

“Now you sound like my mother,” she says with a snicker, and her smile fades.

I know she hasn’t visited home in a few years, and she misses her family. During one of our Sluggers meetups, we discussed it. Her work schedule hasn’t allowed her the time off.

“I can’t figure out why no one is speaking about going on these shitty dates,” she says.

“Believe it or not, every woman I’ve taken out has had an incredible time. Each has wanted a second date. I set the expectation of only having one drink together. No one is ever rushed, and I give my undivided attention.”

“You only commit to one drink. How long does that last?” she asks.

“Usually around forty-five minutes, but never over an hour. Dating while going through a very public divorce is …different. Many believe I’m searching for a hookup or a rebound. I’m not. Within ten minutes, I know if someone is dateable or not. I’m currently on a strike-out streak.”

My headless fish is slid across the table, along with a new drink.

I smile. “Thanks again.”

“Yes, sir. If you need anything else, please don’t hesitate to ask. Chef Rallings says hello and sends his best wishes.” She bows like I’m royalty.

“Please tell him I said the same.”

She nods and backs away.

When we’re alone, Carlee smirks. “Does everyone treat you this way?”

“Everyone except you,” I mutter.

She finishes chewing. “When I was a kid, my older brothers and sister trained me not to be intimidated by anyone. There are no exceptions. Not even you.”

I can’t stop watching her as the candle flickers on the table.

“Does it bother you?” Carlee asks.

“Absolutely not. Ipreferit,” I admit.

Her sexy little grin returns. “What is it that Weston Calloway is searching for in a partner? Maybe I can help you find someone for real.”

“I want a relationship with substance and real conversation. Someone who doesn’t try to be who they think I want. I married for lust the first time. Now, Iwantpatient love. It’s important to me.”

She pins me in place with her piercing gaze. “I hope you find it, Weston.”

“I will,” I confirm.

“I want to believe love exists for me, but I’m beginning to lose hope. My bad luck with dating makes me want to fuck around and find out. I’ve been playing it safe for the past year, and I’m growing bored,” she admits.

I also know she’s three martinis in, and this is how she gets when she drinks.

Invincible. Outspoken. Flirty as fuck.

“Do it,” I say, wanting to take risks withher. “The only person stopping you isyou.”

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