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My eyes widened, and I glanced at him. A small teasing smile played on his lips, and I groaned in embarrassment. "Hetoldyou?"

"No. I overheard my Mom and Dad talking one night."

I groaned again and covered my hot face with my hands. "This is so embarrassing."

"No, it's not."

Tyler was quiet for a long moment, and when I peeked at him, he was staring out into the distance. His jaw was clenched, and he had a faraway, determined look on his face. He turned to me, and I was surprised to find no judgment on his face. In fact, there was an almost sympathetic expression in his eyes.

"I know all about falling for someone society deems is...inappropriate." His jaw clenched again. "It's fucking bullshit."

I reared back in surprise. I rarely heard Tyler swear, but the way his face reddened in bitterness and the way he flexed his fists, you'd think he was gearing up for a fight.

"You...like someone who's inappropriate?"

He breathed deeply, his nostrils flaring. "She's older."

My brow quirked. "Not one of your professors?"

He gave a puff of laughter. "No."

"Oh, good. I don't want you stealing my thunder."

He snorted in amusement, and we both shared a laugh. My mood lightened a little.

"She's a single Momma as well," he confessed.

My face softened, picturing a mom with a young child. I could understand if she was hesitant to introduce a new man to her kid or kids. There was a lot to consider. But if there was one thing my cousin was, it was determined. Once he made his mind up about something, nothing wavered him. He was self-assured and knew his own mind, even from a young age. You couldn'tfind anyone more kind, loyal, and hardworking than Tyler. Well, except maybe my Roman.

And, so what if she was older? There wouldn't be such a big issue if the genders were reversed.

"Ty, if you truly like this woman -"

"Love," he corrected.

My mouth formed a little "o" in surprise at his admission.

"O-okay. Love. If you truly love this woman, then don't give up. You're such a great guy – you're kind, and respectful, and considerate. I'm honestly surprised that you haven't been snapped up already." I bumped my shoulder with his. "She'd be a fool not to want you."

Tyler's cheeks pinkened, and he hid his embarrassment by adjusting his cap. "Thanks, cous."

"And, hey," I bumped his shoulder again. "I can totally picture you coaching a little league or picking up a cute ballerina from her class."

Tyler's brow furrowed. "No, Luce, you don't understand. Her kid's not -"

Before he could finish, a car pulled up into the driveway.

My Dad was here.

Chapter 13

ROMAN

I raised my hand and knocked on Michael Thomas' door. My heart was thumping, and my body hummed with restless anticipation. Only a piece of wood separated me from my girl, and it was taking everything in me not to kick the door down.

But that wouldn't bode well with Michael. And I needed to play nice with him. He held the key to my happiness, and I'd do anything to obtain that prize.

The door swung open, and a formidable-looking Michael Thomas stood there. His face was difficult to read, but I would bet my bottom dollar that the last thing he wanted to do was welcome me back into his home.