I smile wide as I think back to when we played pool together almost a year ago.

“What kind of cake is it, Maze?” Diesel dips his finger into the frosting, and Maize smacks his hand away.

“Carrot cake, Gavin’s favorite.”

My mouth waters, and I glance up at her with a grin.

Maize flashes me a little wink. “Told you I did my research.”

Then she walks away.

It’s Thursday, and I’m meeting Maize at the pub in an hour. Since she wants us to recreate the night we met, I wear the same shirt. The real test will be if she notices.

By the time I arrive, she’s sitting at the bar talking to Kenzie and drinking. I walk up to her, and Kenzie’s eyes light up when she sees me. Maize quickly turns and releases a gasp before I cup her cheeks, and our mouths collide.

Our tongues tangle together, and before we get lost in the moment, we break apart.

“What was that for?” she asks, doe-eyed.

“Just a thank you for the delicious cake.” I smirk. “Grayson’s all butt hurt I didn’t share, but I refused. Best carrot cake I’ve ever had.”

She blinks up at me with a shy smile.

“I don’t recall that happening last time,” Kenzie blurts out, watching us closely. “Am I getting the R-rated version?”

A blush hits Maize’s cheeks, and I laugh at Kenzie’s boldness.

“Might be X-rated. Not sure yet.” I shrug, stepping closer and wrapping an arm around Maize. “One thing’s for certain, I’m not wasting any time tonight. Plus, I’m like an elephant and remember every detail. The conversation about you becoming a nun, crooked dick pics, and—” I lean in so only Maize can hear me. “Spanking your ass.”

She gulps and bites down on her lower lip.

“But right now, we have drinks to order and a game of pool to play.”

“Dude.” Grayson slams his palm on the table. “I can’t believe you still haven’t put her out of her damn misery. She’s given you the first-class treatment all damn week, and you still haven’t agreed to give her a second chance?” His eyes widen with disbelief.

I shrug, scanning the dining room for Maize and frown when I still haven’t found her. We’ve been here for almost twenty minutes.

“Trust me, I appreciate her effort. I’m shocked, honestly. And I want to be with her. I’m just concerned she’ll change her mind next week. But I’m enjoying every second.”

“You better stop makin’ her chase you before she gives up and the tables turn. This back-and-forth shit is giving me a headache. It could all backfire because Maize isn’t that patient.”

His words nearly gut me, and I realize he’s right.