Page 45 of The Rules of Dating

Eddie dipped a piece of shrimp in some cilantro-lime sauce. “It’s amazing how far the shop has come in the past couple of years. I’m kind of proud that I was one of your original clients.”

“Yeah. Well, I couldn’t do it alone. Deek has been a big help. And the new location has brought in a lot of people.”

“Deek is great, but you’re the real talent in there. Word travels fast when someone is good at their job. I know I’ve recommended you to more than a few people.”

I stared down at the full sleeve I’d inked on him. “Well, I really appreciate that, Eddie. You’re a good egg.”

My phone chimed. When I looked down, I saw a text from Colby.

Nice to know you’re actually capable of going out on a real date. Hope you’re having a nice time.

Adrenaline coursed through me as I looked around the room. What the hell is he doing here? It was a weeknight, so I would’ve thought he’d be home with Saylor.

I typed.

Billie: Where are you?

A few seconds later came his response.

Colby: Does it matter?

Billie: I want to know how you know where I am.

Colby: Maybe you should pay attention to your date and stop worrying about such things.

“Is everything okay?” Eddie asked.

“Yeah. Just a…personal issue.” I stood from my chair. “Will you excuse me for a moment? I need to use the restroom.”

“Of course,” he said, looking concerned.

I went to the bathroom to text Colby in peace. Leaning against the sink, I typed lightning fast.

Billie: Have you been watching me all night?

Colby: Yeah. Because I have SO much time on my hands that I’ve now taken to stalking you. Really, Billie?

Billie: Are you here, though?

He dodged the question.

Colby: I just wish you were fucking honest with me.

Billie: What do you mean?

Colby: All this time you’ve been acting like you’re afraid of anything serious, not wanting to date. But apparently you’re just hesitant to date ME. Why not say that and be done with it?

He had no clue. He wanted me to be honest? Honest would have meant admitting that I’d never been more scared of anything in my life than my feelings for him. They were the very reason I was on this date.

Billie: It’s not that simple, Colby.

Colby: Love the royal blue corset, by the way. I hadn’t seen that one before. You must reserve that one for real dates.

Ouch.

I walked back out and surveyed the place. There was no sign of him.

Billie: Why won’t you tell me where you are?