Page 43 of Take My Love

My eyes snap to hers and I glare at her in warning.

Shut up, for the love of God, shut it.

I never told Bellamy about Silas taking my virginity and don’t need my parents finding out about it now either.

Aunt JoJo leans in closer and whispers, “Doesn’t mean y’all couldn’t sneak ’round.”

“Oh my God.” Shaking my head, I take a long, slow drink.

“After the wedding is over, we’re gonna start on construction for the new childcare center,” Dad announces. “So prepare for some louder than usual days while the land gets developed and while it gets built.”

“You’re buildin’ that here?” Silas asks.

“Yep, so if you knock up a girl, you’ll get free childcare workin’ here.”

Silas glances around as if he’s waiting for the punchline.

“Mom requested the addition in hopes it’ll force us to give her grandchildren,” I explain.

“That’s…only halfway true,” Mom defends. “A lot of our employees have kids so it only makes sense to provide a place to bring ’em so they don’t gotta worry about the added expense or not havin’ a sitter. They’ll be able to visit durin’ their lunch breaks and not worry about a long commute pickin’ ’em up after.”

“I think it sounds like a fantastic idea.” Silas beams.

“Thank you, honey.”

What a kiss-ass.

I somehow manage to get through dinner and dessert without any of my secrets being revealed. Dad goes over specific tasks for each of us, including the day after for the farewell brunch and cleaning up.

“So…” Silas prompts once we’re home. “Which datin’ apps do you suggest I try?”

“You seriously wanna know?” I ask, shoving my comforter in the dryer.

“Yeah, I only have a few weeks to find a weddin’ date and if Michelle doesn’t work out, I’ll need options.”

“Um…I like Grindr. Lots of nice people on that one.”

“Grindr? Okay, cool. I’ll try it.”

I close the door, then set the timer for fifteen minutes. “Good luck.”

“Posey.” He stares at me. “I’m not that dumb.”

I burst out laughing. “Damn. Well…then don’t ask dumb questions.”

“Why was askin’ you about datin’ apps dumb?” he asks, following me out of the laundry room.

“’Cause I complained about how horrible my experiences have been and then you go ask me which ones you should try. Put two and two together, genius.”

“Alright, fine. Then whaddya suggest?”

“You could go out to a bar?” I spin around quickly to tell him my next idea, but he’s so damn close to me, we bump right into each other.

“Oh shit, sorry.” He grabs my shoulders before I can fall on my ass.

“Distance, Silas. Six feet at all times.” I push against his chest to move him back.

He laughs. “I didn’t know you were suddenly gonna turn.”