Page 60 of The Romance Adventure

“I mean, the way he watched you walk away. You probably couldn’t see because of the glare on the glass, but that big window in the front provides a front-row view of most everything that happens in Coco Key.”

“If that’s the case, then you’d know that ship has sailed.”

“So, there was a ship?”

“No, there was never a ship. I said that wrong. I’m the executioner. I mean executor. Said that wrong, too. Trust me, I’m taking one for the team, sis, considering that was supposed to be your job. Royal McGregor is no day at the beach. No picnic.” A little sigh escapes when I think about our grinders on the beach.

“What was that?”

“Nutmeg hissing at something?” I stiffen, afraid it could be the enemy, aka Dax, tracking me down. In that case, I’ll owe Nutmeg treats for life.

“No, that was you letting out a little sigh. A swoony sigh? A lovelorn sigh? A sigh that’s the sound of a heart in need of soothing?”

“Bean, you’ve read way too many romance novels.”

“Mostly, I read legal documents, but I do cleanse my palette with a happily ever after from time to time.”

“Listen, Royal is a mood. The man only has one setting and it’s to scowl. At me. It’s like his life mission.”

“Getting a rise out of you? Sounds to me like he’s emotionally immature and trying to get your attention.”

“No, it’s definitely not that. We’re well past that phase. He had my attention. Made it clear he didn’t want it. He’s smug. Arrogant. Dumb.”

“Dumb?” Bean asks as if this simple word has more significance than meets the eye.

I cross my arms in front of my chest and pout.

“The last time you called a boy dumb was in fifth grade when Benny Gallegos kissed you on the cheek and then stole your lollipop right out of your hand.”

I point toward the door. “Oh, look, something shiny.”

Bean’s gaze doesn’t waver from me. “You should’ve said my book boyfriend just strode through the door bearing chocolate. That would’ve gotten my attention. But I don’t think a book boyfriend or chocolate is the issue at hand. Question: Do you think Royal is attractive?”

“All the McGregors are. It’s in their DNA.”

“But Royal specifically?”

“No, he’s gross and dumb.”

Bean laughs. “I see how it is.”

My phone beeps and I startle.

“Waiting for a message from Mr. Love Muffin?”

I cock my hip as I pull my phone out of my back pocket. “No, Bean. That’s Jackie.”

“Jack Butler? You guys are still in touch?”

“And he’s still asking for your number.”

“If you gave it to him⁠—”

“No, silly. That’s why he texts me.” I let out a sigh, trying to recalibrate post-Royal’s dismissal, Dax’s missile aimed in my general direction, and Bean’s allegation that I like the grown-up man who kissed me then may as well have stolen my lollipop.”

Jackie messages, saying he found me someone to date. Bean reads over my shoulder.

“Haha. Jackie Boy. I won’t be dating today or ever again,” I say as I rapidly type.