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“I don’t have anything to wear since I didn’t think I’d be needing a dress anytime soon. I’ll have to head out this weekend and grab one.”

“Sunday,” I reply. “I could take you shopping for a dress and then out for something to eat. We had plans anyway.”

And I can’t think of a better way to spend my birthday.

Kendra holds up a hand. “Oh, no way am I letting you pay for a dress.”

I take her hand in mine, and a breath catches in her throat when I interlace our fingers and drop our joined hands between us. “If we want to make this believable, then we need to start practicing now. Getting used to holding hands and being intimate in public. If you were my girlfriend for real, then I would one hundred percent be hands on with you. I’d also treat you. Because that’s what it is, Kendra—a gift. Not a display of ownership and definitely not a threat to your independence. So, let’s make this as authentic as we can. Starting on Sunday.”

She’s looking at our hands when I finish speaking. I can’t seeher face, but I don’t miss the way her chest rises and falls more rapidly than before.

And when she finally lifts her gaze to mine, relief floods my insides.

“You’d do all of this for me? You’re risking a lot for not much in return, Jack.”

Memories of the way Dad hounded my mum for months after they split resurface. It’s possible that Jon is right, and I am risking my feelings. But if I can help Kendra break free of the web Tyler seems hell-bent to ensnare her in, then that’s reason enough for me.

“Yeah, I would.” I swallow thickly. “Not all guys are as selfish as your ex, Kendra.”

CHAPTER FIFTEEN

KENDRA

Just like the first day I moved into Jack’s apartment, I find myself staring into the full-length mirror, trying to decide if the skinny blue jeans and black V-neck sweater I’m wearing for our “date” today are suitable.

Around five minutes ago, I heard Jack’s bedroom door open, and I know he’s out in the living area, waiting for me.

But I’m nervous—I can’t deny it. When Jack suggested we fake date, I could see all the reasons why it was a great but also terrible idea, and I went to bed on Friday night with my head full of overwhelming thoughts. And by this morning, not much has changed.

Will he hold my hand today? Hug me?Kissme?

Giving myself another once-over, I conclude that even if this outfit isn’t right for what he has planned, it’s not like I have many other options anyway.

Turning back to the bed, I pick up the card and gift I ran out to get Jack yesterday. Sure, money is tight right now, but there’s no way I’m letting this day pass without getting him something.

On one final deep breath, I push down the handle on my bedroom door and head out into the hallway.

Reaching the living area, I find Jack with his back to me. Perched on the arm of his couch, he holds the remote in one hand as he watches hockey highlights from last night’s games.

“Happy birthday,” I say, the butterflies in my stomach an alien sensation. I’ve never had this feeling, even when I was dating Tyler for real.

Swiveling around, Jack flicks off the TV, all while keeping his attention firmly on me.

I hold his gift out to him and wince at the level of cringe it is. I don’t know much about his dad, but I’m sure Jon and his mom and probably even his sister will blow what I got him out of the water.

Jack still hasn’t said a word to me as he tosses the remote on the couch cushions and makes his way over to where I’m standing.

In the past, I’ve admired how good-looking he is, and maybe today heightens everything due to the circumstances, but I find my eyes ascending his body. From his gray sneakers to his tailored black jeans and fitted sweater. The zip on the collar is all the way down, revealing a flash of his chest, and his floppy brown hair is styled forward in a messy but incredibly sexy way.

Yeah, he’s fucking hot.

Not just in the way he looks, but in the way he carries himself too. With the right balance of humility and confidence. But the hottest part right now? Well, that would be his unwavering attention when he comes to stop in front of me.

He still hasn’t looked at the gift in my hand when he takes it. “You look … really great, Kendra.” A smirk tugs at his lips as I feel my cheeks heat. “You wore your hair down.”

I run a hand through it and shrug, trying to remain passive. “Someone mentioned that it looks good like this, so I thoughtwhy notsince it’s their birthday. Twenty-three, right?”

Jack bites down on his bottom lip as his eyes drop to the gift. “Did you get me a boyfriend card too?”