Page 10 of Fate In Fiction

“That’s a lot of fitness.”

“I need balance with all the hours I spend reading.” Her laugh warms my chest, and I feel myself laughing with her.

That’s new.

“You’re such a little book nerd.”

“Get used to it.” She shrugs, but I’m not done asking questions yet.

“We aren’t going to be together long term, are we?” I retract my hands from under hers because they’re becoming too comfortable under her warmth. No need to put on a show when no one is watching.

“No, just until I have access and your end of the deal gets fulfilled as well.” Her eyes hold a reel of her months of freedom. Excitement. “Maybe four to six months?”

“So, I’m painted as the bad guy?” Wouldn’t be the first time. “Your father is fine with you prancing alone around Europe?”

“He doesn’t know that part. I’m sure he imagines a trip to Florida or something with friends.” Her eyes roll. “But I’m twenty; I can make my own choices.” I nearly choke on air at her confession.

“Pardon me, Ms. ‘I’m admitting I shot whiskey underage.’” I was hoping she was a young-looking twenty-four-year-old.

“My main concern is you being used to having women at the snap of your fingers.” Great, now she’s jumping to accusing me. I’ll give her points for getting the attention off herself.

“I haven’t had time for women in months. Hence, why I’m hearing you out about this.”

“You’re making time for me right now, but can’t go on a date?” She could stop proving her point now. “Emmett, you can settle down if you really want to. I’m calling bull on your petty work excuse too.” She sits back in her seat and crosses her arms. “You’re making time for us to fake date. Therefore, you could easily put yourself out there.”

“Finding the right woman is a different issue, okay? Stop attacking me.” Fake dating has no pressure. I don’t actually have to put effort into growing something that isn’t long lasting.

“We can hold hands and maybe have a cheek kiss for the public eye.” She changes the subject, and I don’t miss the way her eyes fall to my lips before landing on her drink. “Are you capable of refraining from the carousel of women I’ve seen you with on social media?” Her eyes widen, and I guess that to mean she didn’t intend to say that last part out loud.

“I just told you I haven’t had time for women. And, stalker much?”

“I need to know what I was getting myself into.” Her lip twitches to a smirk.

“Look, Josie. I barely have time for my right hand.” I’m trying to get my life in order and, honestly, a quick fuck no longer does the trick. “There will be no women, unless you want to put my skills to the test.” I wink. “I can get into the nerdy reading girl role play.”

“I’m more than aware I’m the opposite of your distasteful selection.” She almost sounds disappointed. “Do you think that will be problem with us on your end? Your family needs to believe our relationship.”

“The fact that you’re different shows I’m trying to improve.” I shrug. “My parents will think I have finally taken things seriously and am branching out.” My throat clears as my gut churns with concern. “You’re young. Don’t go falling for the charm I’m about to throw your way in public.”

“Please, I could have slept with you the first time you asked. I want my freedom more than your overly ridden dick.” I don’t try biting back my smirk as distaste leaves her mouth. “Seriously, how many miles does that thing have by now?” Her arms cross, and I wonder if I am actually supposed to answer her question.

“You sure know how to keep a guy humble.” I huff a laugh, but am I really that repulsive to her?

“Emmett, you know in the right moment, any girl will drop her panties for you.” Well, that took a turn. “I’d rather avoid that moment in order for a chance of freedom.”

“I’m fine to put the brakes on, but if you ever want to take me for spin…” I chime, and leave the offer open-ended.

“Noted.” Her eyes roll as her phone lights up. “So, we can inform our parents about us seeing each other?” I see her mother’s name pop up on the screen again.

“Sure, Jojo.”

“It’s Josie.” I want to agree with her. Jojo doesn’t suit her, but I like how her eyes squint with annoyance.

“Josie is a friend level, little darlin’,” I clarify. “How about Phinie?”

“My father calls me that,” she sighs, picking up her book. “Jojo it is.” She hates the name. Using it might keep a block between us so she doesn’t fall for me.

“Let me give you my cell number. We need to get together again soon and come up with a backstory and all that.” We stand from the booth.