He dangles the keys and gives me one of those damn pretty-boy smiles.
I don’t know how to say no, because honestly, I don’t think I can. He did so much on my car, and I don’t have the money to pay the bill.
“Thank you,” I rasp out, snatching the car keys from him. “Thank you.”
He nods, giving me a softer smile.
Turning around, I rush for the door before I make a fool of myself. My heart is pounding, and I think I’m going to be sick.
“See you tomorrow, Latte Boy!” he calls out, chuckling.
My car is waiting for me out front. Rushing over, I get in and start the car up. It runs smoothly, the sound from before is gone.
I cast a glance over to the door of the shop and find Cooper watching me. He’s leaning against the doorframe, a lazy smile on his face. He lifts a hand and waves before stepping out and walking toward the open garage door.
The whole car ride home, I can’t make sense of it.
I just don’t understand.
Before I can really freak out, I open my message to Davis and Rylee, filling them in on everything that happened today.
Davis: I think he’s just a good guy, Blake. I know it’s hard to believe, and it’s rare, but there are good people out there.
Rylee: Looks like you found yourself a good one. Don’t push him away, babe. He seems genuine. And from what you say about his friends, they think so too.
Me: You don’t think it's crazy? Too much? Way out of line?
Davis: Like he said, you did him a big favor, he did one back. You’re even.
Me: I didn’t do the favor for him, I did it for my sister.
Rylee: Still. He’s showing his appreciation. Ever heard of the phrase don’t look a gift horse in the mouth?
Me: What if he changes his mind and wants the money later on down the road?
Davis: Then keep the money you have, and add to it as you go. If he wants you to end up paying, then you have the money, and he’s a shitty person for fucking with you. If he is the real deal, then you have a nice chunk of change.
Me: This is crazy.
Rylee: You deserve good things in your life, babe. Just accept it. If you second-guess everything, you’re never really going to enjoy life, and you’re going to keep pushing people away.
I know she’s right, and I hate it. It’s hard to just accept it, though. There’s always a price to pay, nothing is free in life, right?
My mind is a mess for the rest of the day. I’m there, but not; lost in thought.
By the time I’m heading to bed, I decide to accept that Cooper is a good person and that maybe he feels like he needs to do this for himself. Who am I to question that?
I’ll make sure to thank him again when I see him tomorrow. It’s the least I can do.
Today was one hell of a day. One I can’t wrap my head around.
Chapter 7
Cooper
“Two chocolate mint lattes, please,” I ask the barista.
It’s Monday evening, and I’m just getting out of practice. It might be a little late for caffeine, but I know I will need it if I want to pay attention and learn what Blake is helping me with.
