“Why was she surprised? I mean, your ex is the best man so you’ve dated before. It’s not like you just escaped from a convent.”

She huffed, then glanced down at herself. “Look at me. God, is that a raspberry stain?” She lifted the hem of her shirt to inspect a red spot. I didn’t notice that but instead the strip of skin that was exposed when she did so. Soft, pale flesh just above the top of her jeans.

“Is this ex that much of a catch?”

“Edward?” She set her hands on her hips. “If you like being in a relationship with a two-timer.”

I cocked my head to the side and tried to remain calm. “He cheated on you?”

Her eyebrows went up as she nodded.

“Well, he’s an asshole.”

The guy didn’t realize how lucky he’d been. Having a woman like Astrid in his bed but getting some elsewhere? He was stupid, too. I couldn’t wait to meet him.

She held up a hand. “Oh, I know it. But my family doesn’t.”

Clearly, this was a hot button for her. Enough of one that she’d bought a date to take with her. There was enough baggage there for an around-the-world trip and I had a feeling there was a lot she wasn’t telling me.

“Your mother doesn’t think you can get a date because you… what, don’t get all dolled up on a Saturday night?”

“Pretty much,” she admitted, glancing down at herself.

“That’s shallow,” I told her.

“That’s my family,” she countered, as if it explained everything.

“Well, they’re wrong.” I pushed off the desk and she had to tip her head back to keep her gaze on mine. “If a guy doesn’t see who you really are because he’s caught on a short skirt and a push up bra, then he’s not worth your time.”

Her mouth fell open, then she snapped it shut. “Says the guy I bought at an auction.”

“Says the guy who’s going to be your date. Friday to Sunday.”

No matter how intriguing I found Astrid, I was probably leaving in a few months. I was settled here in The Bend, but a carefree winter in the tropics? I hadn’t officially decided yet, but I had to give him an answer soon. I had a solid bar manager in Kelly. The puppies would be heading to their new homes starting next weekend. If the auction and the short time since was any indication, Sawyer and Huck would be busy fucking their women.