Page 23 of That Kind of Guy

“What about dating?”

“That’s what we’re doing.”

“No, I mean, dating other people.” I sent him an emphasized look. “You aren’t exactly known for being celibate.”

He barked a laugh of disbelief. “Neither are you.”

My brows furrowed. “What are you talking about?”

A muscle in Emmett’s jaw ticked. “You usually date summer workers. Elizabeth mentioned you seeing some guy last summer, some guy who worked at Wyatt’s surf shop.” He surveyed me. His gaze was typically amused and easy-going but there was something hard beneath it in this moment. Irritation, maybe. “Seems like you always date people who have a defined date to go home, is that right?”

I was speechless. My mouth opened and closed, and I looked around the room. “Okay, so? I’m not really looking for anything long term and—” I shrugged. “—I’m a human and sometimes I need to get laid.”

The irritation faded from his eyes and a grin spread across his face. He looked absolutely delighted. He was loving this conversation. He’d probably write it in his diary and re-read it again and again.

“Is there anything wrong with that?” I asked, defensive.

“Of course not.” His gaze skimmed over my form so briefly, I could have blinked and missed it. “Sex is important.”

My skin heated. “Great. I think if we’re really discrete and no one finds out about it, it’s okay for us to date on the side.”

He shifted on the couch and rested his arm up along the back of it. Everything about his body language was relaxed except his eyes, which were currently narrowed on me. “No.”

“Excuse me?” My eyebrows shot up.

He shrugged. “Too risky.” He was very interested in something out the window, and kept his gaze glued there as he rubbed his jaw.

“You expect me to stay celibate?”

Look, I’d done it before. Of course I had. It wasn’t a big deal. It was a two months. But the second I was told I couldn’t have something, I wanted it.

His gaze cut to me. “Didn’t know you were such a horndog.” The corner of his mouth tugged up but his jaw was still tense.

I stood. “That’s my cue to leave.”

That amused look was back. “Adams, I’m happy to provide as many boyfriend services as you need.” He followed me out of the living room to the foyer. “Day or night.”

I shook my head to myself. This was a mistake. Huge mistake. “Don’t wait by the phone.” I opened the door and stepped outside without another look.

“Avery.” Something sober in his voice made me pause, and I turned. He leaned against the doorframe with a thoughtful expression. His eyes were rimmed in thick, dark lashes, and there was a tiny white scar on his upper lip, barely noticeable. “I only go into business with people I trust.” He watched me, crossing his arms over his chest. “Can I trust you?”

I let the question hang there in the air. “I don’t feel good about lying to everyone, but if you’re going to fix the grid like you say you will…” My words trailed off. “Yeah, you can trust me.” I pointed a finger at his chest. “Can I trust you?”

He flashed me that wide politician’s smile with all his white teeth. “Of course you can trust me.”

I rolled my eyes. “Jesus Christ, you’re going to need to do better than that if you want to be mayor.”

His laugh followed me as I walked down the path, out of his yard. What had I gotten myself into? I heard it in my head as I made my way home. By the time I unlocked my door and stepped into my pokey little kitchen, I knew there were no other options. Besides, it was a couple months. I could do this. I’d be busy with the restaurant and a couple months would pass faster than expected.

And at the end of it, I’d have my restaurant.

I smiled to myself, briefly closing my eyes with excitement. The Arbutus would be mine, and it would be in my hands to carry on Keiko’s family legacy. No one could take it from me, no one could override my decisions, and no one could derail my dream. I’d be in full control. This ridiculous fake dating thing with Emmett was one tiny steppingstone to the rest of my life, and in five years, I wouldn’t even remember it.

6

Emmett

Blood rushedin my ears and my feet hit the path, one after the other. My lungs burned as I ran, and I focused on my breathing and on the morning light peeking through the trees.

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