Page 89 of The Singles Club

“So, what’s the problem? Is Justin not allowed to have love just because you don’t believe in it?”

I shifted my weight, unsure of how to respond.

“Listen, I know Giselle can talk…a lot, but she really is nice and a good person. Do you really think I’d bring her here if she weren’t? You know I like Justin, and he deserves to be happy, right?”

I dropped my hands from my hips, giving in. “He does.”

“So, you work your magic, and maybe Giselle and Justin will hit it off. Unless, of course, youdolove him…”

Then it clicked. I should’ve known when she conceded so readily to begin with that she was up to something. I’d just been too tired to scrutinize it.

“You two are setting me up.”

“We’re not setting you up.” She flew up her hands in frustration. “This isn’t about competition. It never has been. We care about you. We figured if you really did love him, this would be enough to get you to admit it. You’re the one who says jealousy can spark someone’s true feelings.”

I did say that, but it felt a lot different being on the receiving end.

“Besides, if we’re wrong and you don’t love him, then there’s no harm done since Giselle isn’t an asshole.”

“Yeah, well, your plan backfired,again.” I shook my head and wrapped my arm around hers. “Come on.”

“You’re not mad?”

“Of course I’m mad, but I still love you.”

“I thought you didn’t believe in love.” She failed at hiding a smirk, and I shoved her.

“Funny.”

Back at the table, Crystal didn’t look my way. Giselle was sitting tall, eager for me to give her instructions to win over Justin.MyJustin. If I was going to help her, I had to take on the role of a big sister and make sure she was a worthy candidate.

“Why do you want to do this?” I asked her.

She opened her mouth, pausing before she spoke. She looked over at Isabella, who only shrugged, and then turned back to me. “I like him.”

“But he hasn’t given you any indication that he feels anything towards you?”

“No, well, except for that lunch…”

“That was just business, and you know that.”

She shook her head. “No, he’s probably not interested.”

I sat back in my chair, taking down two gulps of my wine before setting it back on the table. “Alright, why are you interested… beyond the fact that he’s gorgeous and has money?”

Now Crystal looked in my direction. “Viv… that’s rude.”

Dammit. She was right. That was a little much. I didn’t know Giselle or her intentions.

“I’m sorry, I didn’t mean it like that.”

Giselle fiddled with her collar. “It’s fine, I get it.”

“What warms you about him? Gives you that feeling of wanting something more?”

“He has a great smile. I guess I sense there’s more to him than being such a hard worker.”

Therewasmore to him… a lot more.