“He didn’t treat me badly, but some stuff happened, and I need your take on how I should act so I don’t completely embarrass myself.”
“I’m listening.”
I quickly summarize the chain of events—from the airport pickup to the garage showdown.
“Jesus. You just handed me the plot of a romance novel. The chemistry!”
“Don’t you dare. I’m not becoming your next character.”
“Why not? It’d be epic! Forbidden love, the best friend’s little sister, all that tension. I already have the perfect title: Off Limits.”
“I love you, Martina Oviedo, and there’s almost nothing I wouldn’t do for you—but I’m drawing the line there. Besides, did you listen to what I said? He basically told me to stay the hell away from him.”
“I disagree.”
“I don't follow.”
“From what you just told me, Amos wants you. He just thinks you’re too innocent for him.”
“Well . . . he’s not wrong.”
“Maybe it’s more than that.”
“What do you mean?”
“He’s your brother’s best friend, Lilly. If he messed around with you—and let’s be real, from what you’ve toldme about Ethan’s lifestyle, Amos is probably similar—their friendship would be over.”
“I don’t think he’s into me. He seems to loathe me.”
“That’s not loathing, babe. That’s tension. Sexual tension. I had the same thing with Raul after we grew up. I used to want to throw a chair at his head one second and jump on him the next.”
“You really need to rethink this whole prince-engagement situation, Martina. And not just because you two don’t seem in love—although that’s part of it—but because when you talk about Raul, you practically glow through the phone.”
“Raul’s never going to settle down with one woman, Lilly. Vicenzzo, at least, wants to take care of me. He’ll respect me, I’m sure.”
“Not trying to be preachy here, but I’d never get married just for that. Of course respect is important, but what about passion? I want someone who gives me butterflies.”
“Is that how you feel about Amos?”
“Are you on something? What does he have to do with what I just said?”
“You light up when you talk about him. Just like I do when I talk about Raul. Face it, you’re into your grumpy giant.”
“No. I’m just . . . annoyed. Okay, maybe a little attracted. But come on, any woman with eyes would be.”
“Also known as horny?”
“Jesus, I already regret calling.”
“Okay, okay, sorry. So seriously, what’s your plan?”
“I have no idea. Can you help me?”
“You’re asking the wrong person—I’ve had exactly two boyfriends, and one doesn’t even count. He just gave me my first kiss.”
“Still, just tell me how to act. I don’t want to come off like the silly little sister with a crush on her brother’s best friend.”
“So . . . things are fucking awkward, huh?”
