Page 58 of Dr. Sexypants

“Just going on prior experience.”

“You know what they say… new experiences make life better.”

“Hmph.”

****

Justin

I left the bakery without asking Kristy about going to the drone show together. Or even a firm time when we were going to see each other next.

She was pissed off that I’d told Granny O’Brien I didn’t want to date anyone else; although she’d done a good job of hiding it until she’d yanked me into the kitchen and demanded, “What the hell do you think you’re doing telling Granny O’Brien you’re off the market?”

“I was just telling the truth. I’m not seeing anyone but you.”

She’d stuck her hand on her hip. “We’re not boyfriend and girlfriend, Justin. I’ve been clear about that since before we even went on our first date.”

“I never said you were my girlfriend.”

“You implied it!”

Had I? I wasn’t so sure.

“I don’t understand why you’re mad. I never claimed to be your boyfriend, and I don’t think I was wrong for being truthful that I don’t want to date anyone else. People have just now stopped trying to set me up with other women.”

“So, I’m your beard.”

I’d tried not to chuckle at her expense. “I don’t think you’re using that term correctly. You’re the only woman I’m dating; there isn’t anyone else I’m interested in dating. If you want to see other people, do what you need to do. The only thing I ask is that you let me know and don’t make me look like a fool.”

I knew I’d won the argument when her only retort was, “Fine.”

With a suppressed grin, I dropped a kiss on her forehead. “Glad we got that squared away.” Then I stepped back and said, “Dinner at my place tonight? I’ll put steaks and baked potatoes on the grill.”

“Maybe I have plans.”

I shrugged like it made no difference to me. “Okay. Well, if your plans fall through, dinner should be ready around six-thirty, but you’re welcome anytime. Bring Dora and dessert.”

I tried to maintain my nonchalance when I left the bakery, but worried that even if she didn’t have plans, she wouldn’t come over just to prove a point.

When my doorbell rang at six, it felt like a weight had been lifted from my shoulders. My mood got even lighter when I opened the door and found her holding Dora’s leash, an overnight bag, a separate bag adorned with doggie designs, and a cherry pie.

“Hi there.” I almost added, “Not-girlfriend,” but I thought better of it. I knew showing up must have been hard for her. No good would come from teasing her.

At least not like this, about this.

Later tonight when she was in my bed, however, was another story.

****

Kristy

When Justin left the bakery, I’d had every intention of doing anything but going to his house that night.

Then Lainey wasn’t as incensed as I thought she’d be about what he’d told Granny O’Brien.

In fact, I was annoyed how not offended on my behalf she was. Which made me go home and self-reflect.

Had I overreacted to Justin saying he wasn’t on the market?