I sigh, set the glass down, and let out another hopeless groan.
“He’s really driving me crazy. I can’t wait to match him.”
Lina gestures toward the bottle. “Pour me some, so I can judge the situation properly.”
“And I need more sugar if I’m going to stay focused,” Rae adds, hopping onto a stool.
I huff and return my attention to the cookies.
And for a few seconds, I let myself believe that frosting andProsecco might be enough to drown out the memory of Cohen Becker—and the way he made me feel that night.
And this afternoon.
Spoiler: they’re not.
16
Speed (and Lack of) Compatibility
Sloane
There are days when running a matchmaking agency is the best job in the world.
And then there are days when one of your clients is Cohen Becker.
The Cupid’s Agency event room is all set for the afternoon speed-dating test: the pink fairy lights I insisted on stringing up over the tables cast a “romantic and relaxed” glow, the round tables are decorated with tiny bouquets, soft jazz plays in the background. My assistant, Lila, oversees everything with the precision of a general on a mission. She’s pacing back and forth in her baby-blue sweater that looks perfect against her dark hair.
Meanwhile, I’m adjusting the iPad with the evaluation forms, trying to ignore the fact that mymainclient is sitting at table four—legs spread, sleeves rolled up, and wearing the exact expression of a man who thinks this is a circus andhe’sthe prize.
“Alright,” I tell Lila, clapping my hands. “Let’s get this show started.”
She rings the little bell and the couples settle in.
Theoretically, everything is perfectly calibrated: five candidates, selected based on his psychological profile, preferred connection type, and stated values.
Five potential matches.
Five chances for him not to test the limits of my patience.
Tessa Cross — Personal Trainer, 29
Great profile. Athletic, determined, empathetic.
I picked her because she understands athletic pressure, routines, competitiveness. And because her smile could disarm a robot.
She’s perfect for him. Energetic, straightforward, works at a gym two miles from here.
“So,” she asks, “how many hours do you usually train?”
“Too many.”
“Great! I love discipline, adrenaline, consistency. Do you have a training goal this year?”
“Survive.”
I rub my forehead.
Tessa laughs.
