Page 7 of Last Date

“Mayor Rodriguez and I go way back.” He shrugged. “I donated a lot of money to her campaign because we’re such close friends.”

“I see.”

“Hopefully we can become close friends too, Kip.” His tone was flirtatious.

As I struggled for the right words to say in response, I locked eyes with Merrick and Peter coming up the walkway to the Rusty Pier. Merrick’s gaze was disapproving as it settled on Allister and me.

Peter smiled. “Hey, Kip. Fancy meeting you here.”

Because of my awkward conversation with Merrick the other day about Peter, I made sure to give Peter an extra-friendly smile. “I’m meeting Thomas for drinks.”

Peter’s smile faded. “You are?”

“Thomas insisted.” I sighed.

“I see,” Peter murmured. “That’s… great.”

I gave a confused laugh because Peter didn’t sound thrilled.

Merrick cleared his throat. “We’re meeting Thomas too.”

“Seriously?” I widened my eyes.

“Yep.” Merrick popped thePloudly.

My stomach sank as I realized my brother had once again purposely not mentioned Merrick and Peter would be joining us. The rat knew me too well and was fully aware I wouldn’t have shown up if I’d known. Now I’d have to put up with Merrick and Peter playing the perfect couple all night.

“I don’t know why he likes to ambush people,” I grumbled.

Allister held out his hand to Merrick. “Chief Dawson, what a pleasant surprise running into you.” He nodded at Peter. “You too, Peter.”

Merrick shook Allister’s hand. “It’s been too long. How’s the rest of the family doing?”

“We’re hanging in there.”

“And Elon? How is he holding up?” Merrick’s tone was empathetic.

Allister shrugged. “Surprisingly well. We’re hopeful the FBI will be able to locate his kidnappers.”

Merrick nodded. “Yeah, from what I understand, there was no one at the address Elon gave the FBI.”

“Apparently they fled.” Allister grimaced.

“They’ll keep looking. It’s not easy to shake the FBI once they’re on your trail.” Merrick sounded reassuring. “The kidnappers will be brought to justice.”

“Thanks. I appreciate you saying that. It’s all been a bit overwhelming, if I’m honest.” Allister smiled at me. “I’m trying to forget about it for a while. I’ve invited Kip to join me on my yacht for Valentine’s Day. I’m in desperate need of a good time.”

I grimaced as Merrick and Peter turned to me in unison. I hadn’t really planned on telling anyone I had a date with Allister, other than Thomas and Mom. Just in case it was a crash-and-burn situation, I didn’t want a bunch of people knowing.

“Is that right?” Merrick’s tone was odd.

I joked, “Yay. For once I have a date for Valentine’s Day.” I tended to make jokes when I was uncomfortable, and I wasdefinitelyuncomfortable.

“How nice,” Merrick said. “I didn’t realize you two knew each other.”

Allister smiled. “Of course we know each other. I always thought Kip was adorable. I remember him from school.”

Merrick’s jaw tightened. “Oh, yeah?”