Cole Berrett
I know a great Mexican spot.
Maya Silver
Will there be margaritas? My yes is contingent on that.
Cole Berrett
Are you negotiating with me? Again?
Maya Silver
Duh. If you need help with a counteroffer, the Book Nook also sells Negotiating for Dummies. I’ll even give you my friends and family discount.
Yep. It’s going to be hard to take it slow when she makes my heart race so fast.
CHAPTER TWELVE
maya
Cole Berrett
Okay. Hear me out. This alien simply believes that destiny has chosen this random chick as his person, and that’s it? Done deal. He’s ready for marriage and babies and the whole she-bang?
Maya Silver
It’s the fated mates trope, so yes, lol.
Cole Berrett
Sounds suspect.
Are you working today or do you have the day off?
Maya Silver
Day off! Meeting Sophie for coffee this afternoon.
Cole Berrett
Nice. Tell her I say hi.
I’m about to start practice.
Talk later?
Maya Silver
Sure. Good luck, Captain!
Unable to fight a smile,I set my phone on the table and take out my book. I sit back, sighing, and sink into the overstuffed chair I’ve hunkered down in. As I take in the coffee shop, I let the scent of espresso wrap around me like a blanket.
I’ve only read a chapter when the door chimes. On instinct, I swivel at the sound. Sophie bustles in, brushing a light layer of snow from her jacket, scanning over the customers seated at bistro tables in wrought-iron chairs and standing in front of a glass case filled with a selection of baked goods. When she spots me cozied up in the back corner by the fireplace, a smile brightens her face.
She scurries over and wraps me up in a quick hug before making herself comfortable in the seat I’ve saved for her. “I amsosorry I’m late.”
I wave off her concern with the flick of a hand. “Don’t worry about it. I’m usually the one running behind, so it’s nice to be first to arrive for once. Plus, I have a book.” I hold the paperback up and wiggle it.
