Best Laid Plans (The Best Girls 4)

“I know. But Steven’s given up trying to change Mom. He just throws up his hands at her antics.”

“I don’t know. I think I like it. You’re kind of unexpected, the way you look at things. Like, who wouldn’t take advantage of having such a rich stepfather? You’re kind of awesome like that.”

Charlie dismissed his praise. “So I’m starving—let’s eat. How much do I owe for my half of the food and movie?”

“I’m only letting you do this because of the pride thing. I’m not crazy you’re keeping this from being a real date by paying half.” He spread out a variety of cartons on the table, and they speared samples to fill their plates.

“How do you know about that?” Charlie asked. “It’s supposed to be a secret.”

“Hannah told Lance who told me all about the Best family dating rules. So I understand it’s not a real date unless I pay for something or kiss you.”

Charlie felt the blood rush to her face. “Look Derek—”

“So I thought maybe I’d let you pay. But you know, there’s still that other little loophole—the kissing thing,” He grinned, his eyebrows dancing.

“I made it very clear there would be no kissing.”

“You know, your eyes are remarkable. Golden—I’ve never seen anything like them. And when you’re angry, they look molten.”

“Don’t try to distract me. It won’t work.”

“I’ll be perfectly happy just to be close to you... for now.” His eyes twinkled. “Wait! Don’t get mad. I’m teasing you.”

“Okay, but I’m serious about not dating anyone.”

“Are you sure it’s not because of that Josh guy?”

“No! I mean, of course not. Josh is marrying Olivia.”

“Hmmm. That’s not what she said. And he seemed awfully protective of you. Are you sure there’s not something else going on between you two?”

“No way—we’re friends. We’ve known each other for years, but that’s all.”

“You’re absolutely positive Josh isn’t into you?”

“Of course I’m sure.”

“And you don’t have some other guy you’re interested in?”

“No one.”

“Great.” He wore a satisfied smile. “So there’s no real reason you and I can’t date. I mean, other than your stubborn streak.”

“I’m not stubborn. But I don’t want the complication of a boyfriend while I’m in law school.”

“Because I might keep you from studying?”

“Yes, exactly,” she said, relieved at his understanding.

“Except I made the law review, so I’m much more likely to help your studying than to hinder it.” Now his blue eyes were scrutinizing hers as he leaned across the narrow table. He was close. Much too close. Charlie dropped her chopsticks.

“You don’t know me, Derek. And I don’t know you, either. I doubt we’re compatible.”

“Why not? Why would you assume we’re not compatible? Like you said, you don’t know me.”

“Because I’m not... I don’t... I’m not like most people. I don’t have casual sex.” She finally got the words out, but her cheeks were burning.

“You’re a virgin, aren’t you?”