He stared back, either not getting the message or ignoring it, and said nothing while tightening and loosening his fists.

“Why crash with your dad when your boss will shell out money to let you stay in a cozy B&B within walking distance of work?” Kate said.

Finn grinned at her. “Exactly. Although as Adi already discovered, ‘cozy’ is questionable.” His eyes glowed with mischief.

She gave me a knowing look. “Yes. Adi told me all about it.”

I shot missiles at her with my eyes, which she ignored. It was becoming a trend.

“How long are you staying?” Finn asked Kate.

“Until tomorrow.”

He nodded. “Adi can show you all the hot spots.”

“Pinkie’s and Brothers,” she said proudly.

“That pretty much sums it up.” They grinned at each other. Again.

“It might be a weird question given we just finished lunch, but what do you want to do for dinner?” Kate asked.

As thrilled as I was to interrupt their bonding moment, I was lost for an answer. “I know you want to live the whole Pleasant Hollow experience, but I figured we’d go to Pinkie’s for breakfast or lunch tomorrow. I can’t subject you to the pizza here.” I fake-gagged. “I won’t.”

Finn laughed. “Good friends say no to bad pizza.”

“Unless you want ice cream or beer for dinner, we’re out of options in town. Should we order delivery from somewhere else?” I worked to focus on Kate, but found it hard to tear my gaze away from Finn in all his post-run sweatiness. My fingers ached to caress his muscular forearms and biceps.

“Why do we have to stay here? I have a car. Let’s drive to…” She looked at Finn. “Is there anything good in Middletown?”

He nodded. “I like Lakeview House in Newburgh. It’s also close. It’s a little pricey, but the food is more than decent, and there’s a nice view of a—”

“Let me guess. A lake?” I suggested smugly.

“You’re too clever,” Finn said.

Kate darted her eyes between us. “Does that work for you?” she asked me.

“Yes!” My skin buzzed with excitement to escape this town and eat yummy food with my best friend. The “little pricey” comment scared me, but the fear was nothing compared to my epic need for a quality meal. Physical distance from Finn…in the form of another town…would be nice too.

“Want to join us, Finn?” Kate asked.

Wait…what? I blinked furiously at her. What was she doing?

His lips formed a broad grin. “I’d love to.”

“Great!” Kate said.

“Great,” I repeated with a fraction of her exuberance.

“I should get back and shower,” Finn said.