Goddamn it, here we go again. Despite his caveman antics, I realize I’m dying to see him again. We have a few weeks until the carnival, maybe I can just see him until then, get him out of my system, and then we can end it. Keep in mind it’s temporary, and nobody gets hurt or used. Well, I suppose technically we’re using each other, but I can live with that. He’s spectacular in bed.
-I suppose I can make a lasagna.-
-Wow, you gave in so easy. Are you day drinking?-
-Did you just call me easy? Not drinking yet, but I’m sure I’ll need a bottle to get through the evening.-
-You’re the opposite of easy.-
-Hard?-
-Yes, I am, thinking about your legs wrapped around my neck.-
Christ, I love his dirty talk.
-I believe we agreed on lasagna.-
-I’m having you for dessert. See you at seven, Panda.-
I hope I’m not making a mistake. Ian’s advice flows through my mind. Relax, have fun. Mason is definitely fun. In bed and out. His insistent pestering is annoying, but I admit I’m flattered. He can have his choice of women, but he’s annoying me.
Danny calls the kids for lunch and after getting them settled, approaches me in the living room. “Ev…”
I hold up my palm, interrupting him. “That can’t happen again.”
“I didn’t mean to do that here, you know, where the kids might see.”
“It can’t happen anywhere. I’m…seeing someone,” I mumble. Mason and I are nowhere near exclusive, but I’m sure going to use him to my advantage now.
“Really?” He looks doubtful, which just pisses me off. Like I owe him an explanation.
“Yes, really.”
“What’s his name?”
“Not that it’s any of your business, but it’s Mason Reed.”
If his jaw drops any farther, he’ll trip over it. “Mason Reed, the fighter?”
“He doesn’t fight anymore. He teaches MMA.”
“You’re dating the former middleweight champion?” His eyes darken and he scrubs his palm across his cheek. “Shit. Don’t tell him I kissed you.”
My laugh comes out as a snort. “No worries there. I’m going to frost Matty’s cake and then head out.”
He nods and leaves me to it. I’m on my way home when I get a text from him.
-Matty’s disappointed you won’t be here when we sing happy birthday and cut the cake.-
Shit. I should be there. I’ll just have to make it a late dinner with Mason.
-What time?-
-Seven-
-I’ll be there.-
I decide not to be chickenshit and call Mason instead of texting. He picks up on the second ring. “Hi, Evie.” Oh, his voice does terrible things to me.
