Page 61 of My Fake Dating with the Grumpiest Highlander
“Completely. But it’s also brilliant.”
“No. It’s just ridiculous.”
I cross my arms.
“You got a better idea? Because I’m tired of being interrogated about my love life at every family dinner. And you’re tired of being summoned for fake medical emergencies. Plus, dating me would help you fit into the community.”
Finn drags both hands down his face.
“This will never work.”
“Why not?”
“Because nobody’s going to believe we’re together. We barely know each other. We don’t even like each other.”
“Exactly. That’s what makes it perfect. Think about it: no emotional complications, just a practical arrangement. We literally can’t lose.”
He studies me for a long moment, like he’s evaluating my mental stability.
“You’re serious,” he finally says.
“Very.”
“You actually want to do this?”
“Yes.”
“Why?”
The question catches me off guard.
WhydoI want this?
Because I’m tired of being the perpetually single one in the family? Because I want to prove Maggie can’t manipulate me? Because the thought of enduring weeks of her schemes makes me want to flee the country?
All of those answers.
And none of them.
“Because I’m tired,” I finally admit. “Tired of people making decisions for me. Tired of being treated like a project. Tired of never having control over my own life in this family.”
Finn stays quiet for a long time. Honestly, I’m surprised he hasn’t run for his life yet.
“What would the rules be?” he asks at last.
My heart gives a tiny jump.
He’s considering it.
He hasn’t said no.
“Rules?”
“If we’re doing this, there need to be rules. Clear ones.”
I sit up straighter, my brain instantly switching into strategy mode.
“Okay. Rule number one: nobody else can know it’s fake.”
