Maize groans with an eye roll, and it’s adorable how worked up she’s getting. “The only reason I said that was because I overheard a conversation and got spooked. I should’ve talked to you about it, but I didn’t.”

I tilt my head, curiously. “What are you talkin’ about?”

“Knox and Kane asked about your job offer with Cooper, and you confirmed it. I knew if you took it, we’d be over, so I thought if I ended it before anything started, then maybe I’d save myself from heartbreak.”

Fuck. If I had known that, things would be different between us right now.

“Wow. I’m glad I finally have an explanation at least.”

“I’m sorry. I know I fucked up big time. My sister and cousins basically had to smack some common sense into me before I lost you for good. Or perhaps I already have...to Sarah.”

The sad expression on her face is just too much, so I put her out of her misery. “Sarah and I are just friends. She understands I have no romantic feelings for her.”

“Okay.” She flashes a small, relieved smile. “We weren’t friends in school, and she made my life hell. Seeing her with you made me hate her even more.”

I frown. “I’m sorry to hear that.” Had I known that, I would’ve never invited her. Now I’m twice as glad I turned her advances down.

She shrugs. “It is what it is.”

“This is really delicious, by the way,” I admit as I inhale another bite. “Beef tips are one of my favorites.”

“That’s a relief. I wasn’t sure.”

“I’m not picky, but you’re an amazing cook, Maize. If I hadn’t picked you up at the pub that night, I definitely would’ve tried after eating your pancakes.”

Maize snorts and laughs again. This is the side of her that I adore. I’m just not sure if it’s here to stay.

“You picked a great spot,” I tell her, looking out at the sunset.

“I love it out here.” She watches the clouds float across the sky. “Figured if you were gonna tell me to take a hike, at least I’d have a nice view to console me.”

Smiling, I shake my head. “You knew feeding me would keep my ass here until my plate was at least cleared.”

“Ha-ha.” She playfully rolls her eyes.

Once we’re both finished eating, I’ve made up my mind. Standing, I lean in and grab her hand, then place a soft kiss on her knuckles. “Thanks for dinner. It was delicious.”

She looks up at me in confusion. “You’re welcome. Thank you for coming.”

Then I push in my chair.

“Are you leavin’?” she asks in a panic.

“Yep. I accept your apology, but I’m not sure where we stand right now.”