I find myself nodding, giving in to him. “All right.”
“What are you hungry for?”
“Um, it looks like there’s a diner nearby that has good reviews,” I say, scrolling on my phone. “Or did you want something specific?”
“Nah, the diner sounds good. Can you put in directions?” he asks, handing me his phone.
I pull up directions, then remember my conversation with Jem. I should search his phone to see if he’s texting anyone or if any of his contacts have a heart or something next to them.
I chicken out. It’s wrong to invade his privacy like that. I’ll have to put on my big girl pants and ask him about it.
We pull up to the diner a few minutes later, and I take a deep breath as we climb out. We head inside, and I try to work up the nerve to ask him if he’s single as we’re seated and handed our menus.
Every time I find the words, the thought that there’s no way someone like him would be single or interested in me floats through my head, and I swallow the question.
This is so much harder than I thought it would be. I want him, but I have no idea how to make it happen. How do people do this every day?
The server stops by with two waters. I grab my menu, scanning the options as I grab my glass and take a sip.
“So, do you have a boyfriend back in Wolf Valley?” Jackson asks.
I spray water all over the table between us, spluttering and coughing as I try to clear my throat.
Oh, my god, real smooth, Fern!
“Um, no,” I mumble, my face burning.
“Really? There’s no one?”
What does that mean? Why is he so surprised that I’m not seeing anyone?
“Um, no. I’m single,” I say. “What about you?” I ask tentatively.
“Single. I was too busy in the SEALs to bother with dating.”
I nod, wondering what to say to that.Is he coming onto me? Is he just looking for a fling after getting out of the military?
I use every ounce of bravery to look up and meet his eyes. His gaze heats as he stares at me, and I swallow hard.
Am I really going to have a wedding week fling?
I know that I deserve a break. I deserve something good after dealing with Valerie and my family for so long.
Can I trust myself not to fall for him, though?
My phone rings, and I rip my gaze away from him as I pull it out of my purse and answer it.
“Hi, Valerie,” I say, giving Jackson a look.
He grins, taking a drink of his water. I watch him lick his lips, and my core clenches.
I’m distracted as I listen to all of Valerie’s new requests. All I can think about is Jackson, his naked body pressed to mine. Him kissing me, his hands on me. What would it be like to have his full attention on me?
Yeah, I’m doing this.
“Okay, I’ll be back soon,” I say, interrupting Valerie.
I end the call and shove my phone back into my purse. I’m going to sleep with Jackson, but right now, I’m going to enjoy our lunch date.
