Enjoying the Show
“Why would it? Of course, I was blackmailed into this date,” she teased, “so I’m not
sure my answer qualifies.”
“Good one.”
“However, I respect anyone who holds down a steady job.” She stared into his eyes,
delivering the truth. “Contrary to what it seems, I’m not into appearances. I’d rather go
out with a trash picker who’s caring and kind than a millionaire who’s nothing more than
a womanizing jerk.”
“Ouch. Okay, I get it. I promise not to stare at the hostess’ ass while I’m with you.”
She chuckled, feeling oddly at ease with the gruff man. “Considering she’s old
enough to be your grandmother, I’m sure your attention would only encourage a heart
attack.”
“Or a stroke. And I’m no good with hospitals. When my dad died, it was all I could
do stomach the pine-scented hallways.”
“Yeah,” she nodded, remembering her mother’s last year. “I felt the same way when
my mom passed.”
After a moment, he shrugged. “Sorry I brought death up at dinner. I’m not really a
conversationalist. Or so my brothers tell me.”
Death at dinner. He sounded as socially inept as she felt. The thought made her
smile. “Tell me about your family.”
“Uh, wouldn’t you rather tell me about yours?”
“My mom died four years ago, my father left when I was seven, and I have no other
family. Now, how about yours?”
He rolled his eyes. “Fine. You asked for it. My dad’s gone. My mother and older
brother Dylan are psychiatrists, and spend too much time analyzing the rest of us.
Derrick, my other older brother—and did I mention he and Dylan are twins—and I work
together in construction.”
“That’s nice to be so near your family. I used to wish for a twin sister, but then I
thought we’d fight over each other’s clothes.”
“And boyfriends?”
