“I hadn’t realized,” I say honestly.

“Look, I know what kind of woman you are. I dig it. I respect it.”

I hear the conviction in his words, but I can’t help but be disappointed he doesn’t try and defend himself either. At least he’s honest.

“You want to go back in?”

One last deep breath before I chuck the calming exercises and probably my sanity. You only live once.

“Yes.”

19

JOEL

I didn’t plan this very well. We left her car on campus so I don’t have any reason to drop her off at home so I can get inside and we can take this thing to the next level. The next level is sex in case that wasn’t crystal clear.

“Oh my God, that was amazing. No wonder you bring all your dates here,” Katrina says as we walk out of the restaurant. She no longer sounds put off by the idea I’ve brought other girls here and I’m hesitant to clarify.

“Never brought anyone else here, Kitty.”

“But you have a standing reservation?” She studies me carefully. “And you never did tell me why your coach was at your table.”

“I’ve had a standing reservation every Thursday since October.” I wait for her to make the connection feeling all sorts of exposed by that statement.

“You’ve had a standing reservation every…” Her words trail off and her smile spreads slowly as if she’s weighing the truth in ounces.

“I wanted to have somewhere to bring you when you finally said yes.”

“And you never brought anyone else even after I turned you down every week?”

I glance up at her and then down, open the car door and close her in before I shake my head in response.

I groan as I walk around the car. I should have lied. I sound like a fool. What’s honesty if it keeps me from getting laid? Damn morals.

I slide into the car and we head back toward campus in a heavy silence.

“So.” She clears her throat. “You went to a lot of trouble for me.”

“It wasn’t any trouble.”

I shoot her what I hope is a playful smile, but I find her face serious and considering.

Dammit. This is what comes from trying too hard. I look like a total chump.

“Thank you.” She turns in her seat as much as the seatbelt will allow. “I’ve been second guessing your every move because I had all these preconceived notions about you, but that’s not fair. I’m sorry for that and I really appreciate tonight and all the help with the play.”

Great, now she thinks I’m some sort of good guy. “You’re welcome, Kitty. Can I talk you into hanging out a bit longer?”

“I should get home. I know he’s sleeping and it’s irrational, but I don’t want to be gone too long.”

“No explanation necessary. I figured you’d say that, but I was thinking maybe some ice cream and Saved by the Bell?”