“The food was good, too,” Marth adds. “I would’ve filmed some of their spreads but Tyson beat me to it. He had me dance with him later for his channel. Did you know he has over five million followers? He got a national endorsement for an energy drink, too.”
“He’s so smitten with that Rory girl. You could take lessons from him,” Betty directs to me.
I’d drifted off, fantasizing about Reese’s gorgeous ass and how maybe I should run into her again even though I told myself I’d stay away, so it takes me a moment before I realize I’m back in the conversation. Something about lessons? They want to teach me how to sew?
“It’s a generous offer,” I start.
“Bah. He’s not even listening.” Betty bats the air in front of my face. “Not good enough for Reese. Let’s move on.”
Not good enough for Reese? “Are you sure you weren’t supposed to summon Justin Marco? He’s the one she met at Coffee’s.”
“And how do you know that?” Betty plants her hands on her hips.
“It’s a crime that the name of Coffee’s is a place that doesn’t even serve coffee,” gripes Marth. “Does that seem right to you?”
“Marth, stick to the topic here,” scolds Linda.
“I’m on topic. We’re discussing Coffee’s,” Marth retorts.
I try to keep my smile from breaking out but it’s damn hard. These three are a hoot, but to keep the peace, I explain. “I was having a drink when Reese and Justin showed up. I don’t think he was what she expected.”
“He lied on his profile,” Marth tells me in a tone that implies he committed a sin on par with stealing collection money. “Said that he was into books and dogs and long walks. Dogs do not like Justin Marco. Remember the dachshund the Swansons owned? Bit his toes whenever Justin would come by the drugstore. That dog knew what was what.”
“Swanson’s dog and I are good buddies,” I say although I’m not sure why. It’s apparent that the Sew Be It ladies are good friends with Reese of the lush lips and even hotter ass, but what that has to do with me is still a mystery.
“That’s true. It’s a point in your favor.” Betty nods.
“I’m glad we’ve got that settled.” My stomach rumbles. “Time for me to get some dinner.”
“It’s nearly eight at night! You haven’t eaten yet?” Marth jumps to her feet. “This isn’t right. It’s probably why you’ve been acting out of sorts. Once we get you fed, we’ll explain how you can win Reese’s hand.” Now they have my attention.
“We haven’t decided he’s the one yet,” cries Betty.
Have to admit, when I stepped foot in the sewing store, I did not expect that the ladies were going to match me up with Reese. I guess they don’t know that she’s dating her boss. Why the hell is she trying to hide it? That’s what I’m not getting.
But I sure as hell don’t want part of being her cover story so no one finds out. I should get to my feet and tell them I’m not interested, but the thought of these formidable women corralling all of their resources to find a man for Reese doesn’t sit well with me. Her dating Novak doesn’t either.
I place my elbows on my knees and lean forward. “Tell me everything about Miss Reese and how I can do a better job of winning her heart.”
“No one said we agreed it was going to be you.” Betty glares.
I settle in, knowing this is likely going to be a long night.
CHAPTER 8
REESE
“H ow did I let them talk me into this again?” I scratch Henry’s head, waiting for an answer I know will never come.
He purrs before jumping down off my bed and running over to my dresser, looking up at the box of treats I have sitting on top of it. It’s the only safe place to store them. The cute little brat knows how to get the lid off the dang thing. He learned to knock it off the dresser onto the floor. Once it’s down, it’s fair game, and Henry gorges himself. The dresser is the only spot he can’t jump up on.
The poor guy has made himself sick off them more than once. “Fine, but only because I can’t tell you no.” I fish him out a few treats before I find a pair of heels to go with my dress.
I let the ladies talk me into a blind date this time. I promised them I wouldn’t delete the dating app yet, but I couldn’t bring myself to use it either. Last night they called and insisted I go on a blind date. Said if I went they’d leave me alone about dating for a few weeks. That was enough incentive for me.
I actually think a blind date might be better. There are no expectations. I know they aren't going to set me up with some weirdo. But if this blows up in my face, then I’m done for a while. Men are all jerks anyways. Except my Henry. He’s the best.