Page 127 of Let Me Keep You

You’re joining me for dinner tonight. I’ll pick you up at 7.

My mouth falls open at the audacity of his demand.

Gemma

No, but hell no.

I’m not going anywhere with him ever again.

Robert

My client specifically requested you come. You will be there.

Gemma

I won’t. Your client is not my problem. I’m not marrying you. It’s over, Robert. Stop texting me!

My blood pressure rises and so does my anger level. I’m half-tempted to block his number so I’ll never have to hear from him again.

Robert

It’s not over. We will work this out because we belong together.

Gemma

You’re INSANE. Leave me alone.

I lock my phone and shove it into my crossbody purse. Thankfully, the food comes soon after because I’m so damn annoyed I can barely stand to be in public.

When I walk inside the shop, Tyler instantly notices my mood change.

“Did you step in dog shit or something?”

Shaking my head, I set the food on the small table. “It’s nothing.”

Tyler doesn’t push the conversation. Instead, he changes the subject, which I’m grateful for. It’s obvious he’s keeping his distance from me at the table, but I get it. My dad’s already suspicious, which motivates me to tell him tomorrow even more.

I take my phone out of my purse and snap a picture of my lunch and send it to Everleigh. Immediately, she responds with a drooling face emoji.

Everleigh

Should’ve gotten you to deliver me lunch. Drinking a shitty protein shake.

I feel bad for not asking her since the boutique is so close.

Gemma

I’m a horrible best friend.

I frown, and Tyler glances up at me. “I’m chatting with Everleigh. She didn’t bring her lunch again. You’re slacking on your brotherly chef duties.”

He lets out a roar of laughter. “I bet you a hundred bucks she ate last night’s leftovers for breakfast because I cooked. Don’t let her play you for a fool. She’s good at that sometimes.”

I gasp. “Seriously? I’m so calling her out! I felt sorry for her for two seconds.”

I type out a message, spilling what Tyler said.

Everleigh