Page 69 of The Deal Maker

Seconds later I receive the contact card for Duke Jacobson. How in the world did she already have that?

You planned this, didn’t you?

No. I prepared for it, but you made up your own mind, sis.

Blowing out a breath, I lie down on my bed and try to focus on the options I have. Will Duke even go with me? And how can I make it so he doesn’t go running away from me when my family gets going?

THIRTY

DUKE

I’m watching something on TV, but it’s not grabbing my attention. I’m still trying to figure out how to repay Maggie. She wouldn’t accept any of the money, which I thought was great and also strange. Who turns down a cash prize?

Something has changed between us though. At times I think she feels the same about me as I do about her. Other times she shuts me down when I hint I wouldn’t mind going on a trip with her somewhere.

I should probably get out and do something to get my mind off of her. It’s not like this could be some amazing enemies-to-lovers story like the romance movies my mom watches. This is real life, and I’m the one who still can’t figure out what to do for a career.

Hey Perry! I’m wondering if you have time to attend?—

I’m midway through the text when a text comes through from an unknown number.

Hey! This is Maggie Dean. I know it’s late and very last minute, but I’m wondering if you have time to be my plus one at the wedding tomorrow?

Something about that gives me both a wave of relief and excitement. After holding her today, I had a moment where I thought this is where I want to be all the time. But that scares me when I can’t even support her or really get out of the rut I’ve been in for a couple of years.

But she’s asking me to be by her side for the wedding. That’s scary enough, so I must’ve won some points with her to ask.

Not wanting to sound too eager, I wait another minute before responding.

What time?

The wedding is at three in the afternoon. It’ll be at the mansion in town. Do you want to meet me there?

The one Beck just finished remodeling?

Maybe?

Do I need a tux?

Whatever you have that’s best. Slacks and a button-up shirt will work. A tie would be even better.

I chuckle and try to picture her texting me.

Do I get brownie points for the tie?

She doesn’t say anything for a bit before replying.

I don’t know about brownie points. I’m sorry it’s so last minute.

I think about that, suddenly jealous at some unknown guy who she’s probably reached out to already.

Maybe just some extra ice cream then. Moose tracks? ??

She sends a laughing emoji.

We’ll work something out.

You never gave me my final ice cream number. What do you say, Dean? ??