Best Dating Rules (The Best Girls 2)

“I guess he could’ve changed his mind, but to be honest, most guys don’t know they want a wife when they find one.”

“That’s true.” Steven walked in and sank onto the couch next to Anne. “I was determined to remain single for the rest of my life.”

“But Spencer’s still in grad school,” Emily reasoned.

“Doesn’t he graduate in December?” asked Steven.

“I guess that’s true,” said Emily. “Still, he doesn’t seem to be in a hurry to settle down.”

“What do you think about Becca? She seems interested in Spencer.” Her mom blinked wide innocent eyes.

“Oh, you mean Betty Boobs?” Emily asked sarcastically.

Anne giggled. “I thought y’all were getting along well by the end of the hike. You have something against her besides her significant endowment? I thought y’all were becoming bosom buddies.”

“Ha, ha. Very funny. I was only trying to make them feel comfortable. Becca’s okay. But she’s not good enough for Spencer. She’s too... too...”

“Busty?” Steven grinned.

“No—too shallow. Becca and Candace were both too shallow for him. He can do better.”

“All the girls I know are too old for him,” said Anne.

“I’m having dinner with his family tonight. Maybe I should ask his sisters.”

“That sounds fun. Have you met his family?”

“I met his four sisters yesterday at Papa’s. They were crazy—you’d love them.”

“And you’re having dinner tonight? Are you supposed to bring something?”

Emily clapped her forehead with the heel of her hand. “Ohmygosh! I almost forgot. I said I’d bring Hello Dolly Bars, and I haven’t even been to the grocery store yet.”

She jumped up to give her mom a hug, cringing at the feel of her gaunt shoulders and the weakness of her embrace. “I’m sorry I have to run. I hope you’re better soon, Mom. I’m really worried about you, and so is Charlie.”

As she left, she realized her mom had never answered her question about medications. She’d have to pursue her investigation tomorrow. She wouldn’t stop until she knew the truth.

“That went well.” Anne relaxed against her husband on the couch.

“Yeah, that story about finding a wife for Spencer was really distracting.”

“That wasn’t a story—it was true. May’s been after me to find him

a wife for a while. But I think Emily likes him more than she’s letting on, don’t you?”

“Really? She hardly talked to him on the hike. It’s not like they ever touch each other, even accidentally.”

“Exactly. Emily makes up her mind about people pretty quickly. She likes you, or she dislikes you. One or the other. Black and white. She’ll always try to be polite, even if she doesn’t like you. But, she won’t ever be around you voluntarily. So I know she doesn’t dislike him. And she’s so awkward around him—almost as awkward as he is around her.”

“If you say so. I didn’t notice all that. I was probably distracted by all the cleavage.”

She punched him in the chest, chuckling. “Watch out buddy. When I get my strength back, I’ll make you pay.” Then she grimaced. “Ugh. Help me up, will you?”

“Where to? Do you feel nauseated again?”

She nodded, before her feet buckled under her. He scooped her up and carried her to their bed, handing her a basin. Anne stared at the plastic tub, thinking once again there was nothing inside her to throw up. She felt like crying, but she was so dehydrated no tears emerged.

“That’s it—I’m calling the doctor. I don’t care if it’s Sunday.”