“Why do you think she seated us at the same table?” Amelia asks, her dark brows shooting up.

I glance around at the people sitting nearby. “I thought we were seated at the singles table.”

She shakes her head slowly. “Take a closer look.”

Doing as she says, I study everyone at the table and realize they all seem pretty cozy. As in, we’re definitely not seated at the singles table. “Yeah, I guess you’re right. They all look like they’re couples.”

“Because they are couples. They’re all together.” She waves a hand at them, frustration on her face. “And that’s great. But it’s also kind of awkward. What would’ve happened if you didn’t show up?”

“I was definitely showing up. I work here, for the love of God. I’ve been helping set up for this damn wedding all afternoon,” I retort. “I’m sure Candice was counting on that.”

“Maybe. I just—I don’t like feeling tricked.” Amelia’s gaze hardens as she studies me, and her expression turns serious. She’s trying to size me up. Probably thinks I might be a liar too. “You really had no idea that Candice was trying to set us up?”

“None at all.” I shake my head. “She never even mentioned you to me.”

“Not once?”

“Not once.” I repeat with a small smile. “But I would’ve been interested if she did.”

Amelia’s face softens, and she rolls her eyes. “You’re just saying that.”

“Nah.” I’m full-blown grinning now. “You’re cute. Well, you’re more than that, but I don’t wanna scare you. You’re also nice. Kind. Interesting to talk to. You’ve got your shit together. And I’ve always had a thing for older women.”

That last bit isn’t quite true, but I thought I’d say it to make her feel better.

Amelia throws her head back and laughs, and damn if it isn’t a sexy sound. I could get used to that quick. “You just say whatever you’re thinking, don’t you?”

“As long as I don’t hurt anyone, yeah. May as well be honest, right?” I send her a meaningful look. “And if you’re curious, no, I’m not possessive, and I’m not what I would consider jealous either. But I do like to lay claim to what I consider mine.”

Her expression turns flustered. “Um, not that I was particularly curious but—good to know.”

“Yeah.” My smile is flat out arrogant now. “Good to know.”

Eleven

Isaac

Charlie and Candice are the only ones on the dancefloor, swaying to some romantic song I don’t recognize, but it has a faint Christmas-y vibe. They’re staring into each other’s eyes, both of them looking a little dazed and so damn happy, they’re even making my slightly grumpy heart thaw just a tiny bit.

Not that I’m grumpy or down on love, I’ve just never experienced it before. Not an all- consuming, oh my God I need this woman in my life now love.

I haven’t felt that way about anyone. I can barely remember the last time I had a semi-serious relationship. I’ve just been cruising through life.