car.
I rub my temples as I get back into my car and drive to the office. Not only do I have a long day ahead, but Tiffany is going to bombard me with questions.
“Tell me everything.” She’s standing right at my door when I walk in.
“Good morning to you too.”
“Skip all that shit, and tell me.” She tugs on my arm and pushes me into my chair.
“Fine.” I take a deep breath. “It was a nice dinner and dessert.”
She screams. “You had sex!”
“No!” I yell at her. “I was talking about brownies. Did you really think I had sex?”
“I was hoping.”
I shake my head. “I’m not having sex.”
“But,” she urges me on.
“We’re going on a second date,” I cave and tell her.
Tiff squeals and leaps into my arms. “I’m so happy for you.”
“You’re choking me.” I try to breathe.
“I never thought I’d see the day you would be dating a Bear.”
I roll my eyes. “You and me both. Now, I have work to do, so go away.”
She skips out of the room, singing, “You’re going to get laid.”
I swear I wonder sometimes what her maturity level is. I open my emails, but my phone begins to buzz with a text message
Ashton: Thanks for saying yes. Twice.
Me: Aren’t you supposed to be on a plane?
Ashton: Don’t change the subject. P.S. I could be available for a playdate too, you know.
I smile before I realize it.
Me: Let’s take one date at a time. I don’t want you to think I’m easy.
Crap. Am I flirting?
Ashton: Would never think such a thing. Besides, I meant for Reed and Sadie.
I slap my hand to my forehead. Oh, I’m such an idiot. Here I think he’s talking about sex, and he’s talking about an actual playdate for the kids.
Me: Of course. I was joking.
That’s such a lie.
Ashton: I’m sure. ;) I never would have thought you had such a dirty mind
Me: I think that’s your job, right?
Ashton: To be the object of your dirty thoughts? Yes. It’s only fair.
I shake my head. I need to get away from the conversation and fast.
Me: Have a safe trip. Go Gamblers!
Ashton: Thanks, but before I go, do you still want those tickets??
Like I’m ever going to go to Vegas.
Me: Always!
I tease him.
Ashton: :) Have a good day then, Lexie
Me: Have a safe trip
I put my phone down and realize that I do like him.
Crap.
~ ~ ~
“Pops, you’re so funny.” Sadie is holding her side, laughing at Dad.
“What are you saying? I’m being serious. Worms are the secret ingredient in these cookies.” Dad tries to hold back his smile, but it’s hard for him.
“Grammy, did Pops put worms in our food?”
“I’m not exactly sure, but they are yummy.” Mom tweaks her nose.
“Okay. I’ll eat worms for you, Pops.” She take a large bite of the cookie.
“Sadie, why don’t you go watch SpongeBob? I need to talk to Grammy and Pops.” I need parental advice, and they don’t pull any punches with me. Sadie jumps down from the chair and heads into the other room.
“Everything okay?” Dad looks at me with concern.
“I went out on a date last night,” I whisper.
“That’s wonderful!” Mom exclaims.
“Sshh,” I hush her. “I don’t want Sadie to hear.”
“How come?”
“It’s Reed’s dad, Ashton Campbell.”
“Wait,” Dad’s eyes grow wide. “ The Ashton Campbell.”
“Isn’t he the captain of the Bears?” Mom looks between us.
“Yes,” I confirm.
“Oh my.” Mom falls back in her chair a little. “Well, did you have a good time?”
“Yes, I did, and I feel guilty about it.” I drop my head into my hands.
“Why?” they ask at the same time.
“Because I think I like him,” I mumble.
“Honey, that’s not a bad thing. I mean he is a Bear, that sucks a little,” Dad groans. He’s been a Portland fan for as long as I can remember. “But, liking someone is good for you. You haven’t dated in years.”
I look up at him. “We’re going out again. Why do I feel
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