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I snort softly, leaning back in my chair. “Getting there. You know, nothing ever goes as planned. I’m more distracted than I thought I’d be.”

“Why? Is it the date tomorrow you’re worried about?”

If only he knew. He knows about Mia and how she’s helping me, but he doesn’t really know about her. Not in the way he thinks he does. “Yeah. The date.”

“Don’t worry, you’ll charm her. I’m sure you will, you’ve always been a charmer.”

I quickly change the topic. “When are you going to mention losing a thousand dollars to Harry on your last golf bet?”

I rise from the stool and peek out the window. It’s a beautiful afternoon. I’m home alone. Brody is in town.

My dad scoffs. “Because you’re going to gloat. Why should I tell you?”

I laugh. “Of course I’ll gloat. This doesn’t look good, Dad, you’ve been trying for years. Just admit defeat. You can’t beat Harry.”

He hisses. “I’ll beat him. One day. Trust me.”

“I put my trust in Harry on this one.”

“Traitor.”

We talk for a few more minutes, and then he hangs up after reminding me to take care of myself. I set the phone back down and look at the canvas again. Mia’s image stares back at me, and I’m left with the same feeling in my gut.

I’ve got to focus. I can’t let myself get sidetracked. This isn’t about me. It’s about the plan. I know that. I have to find a woman, build a relationship, and solidify my reputation. If not for anyone else, for my dad.

I take a deep breath and walk out of the room.

I’m already over this.

It’s the day of my date with Ashley, and as usual, I’m not thrilled about it. I drive to the park, a private one Mia recommended, and I get there early. The air feels heavy, the weight of my mind pushing down on me as I sit in the car for a moment, staring ahead at the green surroundings. A part of me wonders if I should just turn around, go back to the cottage, and forget about this whole ridiculous plan.

But I can’t. I made a promise, and I’m not about to back out. Not yet.

I step out of the car, carrying the fruit basket, and make my way to the designated spot where we’re meeting. The soft rustling of leaves fills the air, and there’s an odd sense of calm in the park, but it’s lost on me.

I glance at my phone for the time, mentally preparing myself for what’s about to happen. I didn’t even bother texting Denise after the disaster of the art exhibition, and now, I’m already feeling the same about Ashley.

“Jack?”

I look up to see a lady walking toward me, a vision in a red dress. She’s beautiful, in an exotic way. I can only summon a little bit of interest.

“I’m Ashley.”

“I figured. Hi, Ashley.”

She beams at me. “It’s good to see you. I have a spot in the back. Come on.”

She leads me toward the garden in the back, where there’s a mat under several plates of different food. I set down my basket and lower myself down beside her. This time, I want to put in an effort.

“You’re really pretty, Ashley.”

“Thank you, Jack. You don’t look bad yourself.”

I smile. “So, you’re an event planner?”

“Yes. It’s what I’ve always loved to do. When I was a kid, I used to plan everyone’s birthdays and parties.”

I laugh. “I love it when people learn themselves and do what they love.”