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“Nothing. I just called to say hi.”

“Aw, that’s sweet. But what’s up?”

He kicked a rock, sending it skidding across the dirt road. “Do you want to hang out tonight?”

“Are we getting tired of our roommates already?”

“No. I just…”

“I’d love to, but I can’t. I have a date.”

“With…I figured you would’ve broken up with…whoever the mystery man is.” He stopped walking, then turned and headed back toward the house.

“I think I need to. I just haven’t yet.”

“Why not?”

“I don’t know. It’s hard. He’s a sweet guy. I …oh my gosh, I so need to break up with him. Maybe you could crash our date and act like the jealous ex who wants me back.”

“I’m not going to do that.”

“Did the handsome brother come home this weekend? Maybe I’ll come hang out over there.”

“He didn’t make it.” He stopped again and watched a group of deer in the meadow. “And stay away from him.”

“He’s really cute.”

“It would be too weird.”

“It’s not like you’re dating Wilda. Or are you?”

“You know I’m not.”

“That’s why you want to hang out. She’s getting to you. Dinner every night. Family time with Caleb.”

“I’m fine. I can handle it.” He rolled his shoulders and stretched his neck, then resumed walking.

“I can cancel my date, and you can come over. We’ll eat ice cream and…”

“Braid each other’s hair. No thanks. Go on your date and end things with the poor bastard.”

“Why am I constantly breaking guys’ hearts?”

“I don’t know. But that’s another reason not to date Mathias.”

“Am I a terrible person?”

“No.”

“I’m a little terrible.”

“Maybe a little.”

Rachel laughed. “I really don’t mind canceling my date.”

“No, it’s fine. I’m good. I need to spend some time online to find a pool table.”

“Is the parlor done?”