Page 67 of Take My Love

Silas’s laughter echoes through the air as he follows me up the staircase of the deck.

“Posey…” He stands directly behind me while I fight with the key to unlock the door.

His deep gravelly voice sends shivers down my spine but then he leans in and brushes his lips against my ear, sending my heart into overdrive. “C’mon, let’s make up. We can’t have our fictional relationship end. Marjorie won’t like it.”

It’s impossible to stay pretend-mad when he’s playing the role so perfectly.

“I dunno…perhaps you need a night on the couch,” I taunt, walking through the doorway, but he grabs my arm and spins me around until my back plasters against the wood.

“Is that anyway to end our date?” he quips, tilting my chin to meet his humorous gaze.

I furrow my brows, lowering my eyes to his mouth when he licks his lower lip. “I never called this a date.”

“Are we back to roommates now? Or—” He arches a brow, clearly unfazed by my antics.

“You think I’m insane, don’t ya?”

He smirks, releasing his hold but stays close. “Nah, you’re perfectly weird in your own way—a cowgirl who makes goat soap, has a house ghost, and hates flavored creamer.”

“And makes up fake relationship scenarios ’cause I can’t get a real date.”

“You will, Posey.” He steps back so I can shut the door. “We have that double date this weekend. Aren’t you excited?”

Not really.

“Yeah, I guess.” I set my hat down and go to the kitchen to make something to eat.

Once I have my sandwich and a yogurt parfait, I sit on the couch and go through my texts.

Jamie

We have reservations at six for Mauricino’s! I’m so excited!

Posey

Sounds good! Can’t wait :)

I wish I was as excited as she is, but it’ll be nice to get out for the evening.

Jamie and I haven’t texted a lot since I worked all day and then went horseback riding, so we’re still getting to know each other. Jackson texted me once this morning but I never got the chance to respond.

Jackson

Looking forward to seeing you on Saturday! Hopefully, we can chat on the phone before then. I’ll be working for the next forty-eight hours but we can text when we aren’t out on a call.

Posey

Hey! Sorry for not replying sooner. I had a busy day at work, but I’m home now. How’s work going?

Jackson

No problem. It’s been good. Went out on three calls so far and now we’re working on shit.

Posey

I thought you only worked twenty-four hour shifts?

Jackson