Page 2 of Reckless Storm
I want Bria.
But I’m beginning to realize that’s not likely to happen.
When I don’t respond, Hayley raises an eyebrow in challenge and an idea hits me. After Hayley and I first met, we ran into each other a few times, but in the last couple of months, our relationship has morphed from being a friend's friend, to a friend, to close friends, to now speaking daily. Much to Bria’s annoyance.
Hayley could be exactly what I need to show Bria what she’s missing. But not in the way they’re all thinking.
I try to hide my responding smile, but this is too good to suppress and Hayley notices instantly. “What’s that look about?”
“I’ve come up with a plan.”
“Oh, yeah?” Her nose scrunches at the thought. While I wouldn’t say my plans are as daring as Hayley’s usually are, I have been known to have good ideasoccasionally.
“Instead of this fake dating nonsense, I’m going to tell Bria I have a thing for you and we’ll see how she reacts.”
Hayley bursts out laughing. “Oh, Reed.” She pats my leg condescendingly, her smile innocent as she teases. “If only it was that easy. It won’t work unless shebelievesshe’s going to lose you.”
“It’s worth a shot though, right?” I comically cringe and Hayley shakes her head, biting back her sympathetic grin.
“Wrong.” She waves off my thoughts. “Lucky for you, nowIhave an idea.”
Uh, shit.Hayley and her ideas. While I generally love the way her mind works and all the wild adventures she takes me on, I have a feeling I’m not going to like this. Especially when she adds, “You’re going to love it.”
I force a smile in anticipation, and she snorts, sitting tall and proud.
“I’m going to be your fake girlfriend.”
“You’re what now?” My eyes bulge as I do a double take.I did not see that coming.
“I’m volunteering,” she continues as though I was genuinely confused. “I’m an actress; it makes sense for your new girlfriend to be me.”
“Ahh, no. That’s insane and you know it. Plus—”
“I disagree,” she cuts me off, excitement in her tone. “It makes perfect sense. I’m single. You’re single. I’m hot. You’re insanely gorgeous and you can’t deny we’d make a stunning couple.” She winks while I roll my eyes jokingly. “It’s a no-brainer, Reed. We get along. We have fun. Give me one good reason why it shouldn’t be me?”
“Maybe because I don’t think it’s a good idea to begin with. Fake dating is crazy. Come on, Hayls. Think about it.”
“Reed.” She hits me with her arresting gaze, her look telling me she thinksI’mcrazy, not the idea. But she’s wrong. I’m being sensible.
“Hayley.” I stare back at her, mimicking her stance when she crosses her arms over her chest and pouts.
“Are you saying I couldn’t pull it off?”
What?Dammit. She’s good. Now I feel bad.
“Hayley Jackman from down under. You know I think you’re brilliant. And while I’m sure this could be the acting role of your life, you’re forgetting one major plot hole.” Hayley’s smile returns but it won’t last long. I’m about to prove why this is a terrible idea. “I can’t act.”
“But—”
“Or lie,” I add, though she already knows this.
“There are ways around that, Reed. Trust me. I’ve worked on some pretty amateur productions and people still loved them.”
I fall quiet, acutely aware that she is unlikely to give up on this. Once Hayley has an idea in her head, it’s not easy to get her past it. And I’m usually the one going along for the ride.
“For someone that thought I was insane, you’re sure taking a long time to say no.”
“I didn’t say you were insane, Hayls. The idea is just…”God, I don’t even know.I release an overexaggerated sigh, knowing she’s about to sass me, and beat her to the punch. “It’s not the craziest idea I’ve heard come out of your mouth. But I’m going to need to think about it. I’m still not convinced.”
