Page 31 of Baby for my Daddy's Best Friend

Though he is right, I’m here working. I committed to this. And though it kills me to pass on this rare opportunity to spend time with my dad, I really can’t. “Dad, that’s really nice of you to ask, but I’m booked for the next two weeks at least.”

I can almost hear the smile on his face falling. “Oh, well…”

“Next time, I promise you.”

“I understand. I know how all-encompassing work can be.”

“You should document your own trip online,” I suggest. “It’ll almost be like I’m there with you.”

He laughs. “You know I’m no good with that stuff. I’ll email you instead.”

“Fair enough, Dad.” I laugh.

We talk for a minute or so more and then hang up.

My dad couldn’t be more opposite to me when it comes to social media. He uses his phone strictly for calls and messages and doesn’t really understand when I talk to him about my followers.

“They’re following you? Do you need me to do something about it?”he’d said to me when I told him I hit my first 100k followers.

His innocence was endearing, but I didn’t mind. It gave us more to talk about whenever we did end up meeting in person.

I glance over to the empty bedside and sigh as I drag myself out of bed.

This is a new era for me, and I’m not going to let myself get attached to anyone.

Evenif they happen to be the best I’ve ever had.

My cheeks burn as memories of last night come flooding back to me, and I bite down on my lip.

My phone buzzes in my hand.

Enzo:Last night was fun. Looking forward to seeing you again soon.

I reread the message, the smile growing on my face.

He wants to see me again.

I know being with him like this is a risk. My heart still hasn’t fully healed from the last time I tried my hand at love, only to get burned. But I cannot deny the rush I get being around him.

I have not felt this way in years.

With Liam, the butterflies faded very early in our relationship. When he touched me, I would feel nothing.

It isn’t like that with Enzo.

He isnew. Exciting.

I know I am getting ahead of myself, but it feels too good just to stop here.

After all, it’s a new beginning, right? A new chapter.

10

ENZO

“Letmejustsetthis up right here.” Quinn fixes her phone on the tripod by the pond.

“Anything I should prepare myself for?”

---