Page 60 of The Book Club Boyfriend
Because the truth is—I’m not sure I can.
But do I want to try.
Chapter Eighteen
Not That Easy
Scarlett
My laptop is mocking me. I know I should be working, but I can’t bring myself to do it right now.
With a frustrated groan, I minimize the document and lean back in my desk chair. Outside, the Dallas skyline glows faintly through the windows, and my apartment is obnoxiously quiet, which I normally love. But tonight? It feels suffocating.
I should be cranking out words. I have a deadline. I have a contract. I have a platform that’s waiting for my next groundbreaking declaration about female independence and why romantic love is a scam perpetuated by Hallmark and Big Chocolate.
But all I can think about is Chase freaking Remington.
And tacos. And tequila. And the fact that fora guy who annoys the ever-loving hell out of me, he was annoyingly... kind last night. Not to mention stupidly attractive in that dress shirt with his sleeves rolled up, showing forearms doing things I don’t want to discuss.
Ugh.
I toss my phone onto the couch across from me to avoid the temptation to text him.
It buzzes.
I stare at it.
It buzzes again.
Okay,rude.I cross the room and snatch it up, trying not to feel the ridiculous flutter in my chest when I see his name.
Chase:So when does the anti-romance merch line drop? I want a hoodie that says “Romance Novels Have Never Helped Anyone” on the back.
I blink. Then laugh. Then groan because—of course—he’s still thinking about that. And of course he couldn’t just be a gentleman and let me forget my atrocious hot take.
Me:Limited edition. Comes with a mug that says “Love is for suckers.”
Chase: Amazing. I can’t wait to wear the full set to my next press conference.
Me:Please do. Really lean into your villain era. You never know—it could do wonders for your career.
There’s a pause, and I can almost picture him smirking, thumbs hovering above his phone.
Chase:Appreciate the career tip lol.
Me: How does it feel to be the internet’s boyfriend right now?
Chase:Is that what’s happening?
I send an emoji of a person shrugging.
Chase: Real talk. You were good last night. Brave. Just wanted to say that.
I stare at the screen.
That’s… unexpected.
And worse? It makes something twist in my stomach. Something warm. Something terrifying.
