“I know the feeling. I’ve got two sisters and a brother, and they’re all married. We all had wedding fever before every event. My mom was freaking out before each one. How is yours faring?”
He set his lips in a firm line. “My parents died in a car crash when I was a teenager.”
“Oh. I’m sorry for your loss.”
He nodded, focusing on his taco. I wanted to lighten up the mood again.
“I hope there isn’t a singles’ table at the wedding. They should be banned. I went through that horror once.”
He barked out a laugh. “There isn’t. My family isn’t that cruel.”
“Neither is mine. Just clueless. My brother got married first, and they had that terrible table. My sisters were also single at the time. We still torment him about it. He’s since paid for his sins, but we’re evil little things.”
Will scrutinized me in silence for a few seconds, as if he was trying to make up his mind about something.
“What are you doing Saturday in three weeks?”
I grimaced. “Trying to weasel out of a meeting with some high school classmates.”
“High school not your favorite scene?”
“Not really.”
“My sister’s wedding is that Saturday. How would you feel about going with me?”
“Very funny,” I said. He wasn’t smiling. “Wait, you’re serious?”
“Yes.”
“Why would you take someone you don’t know?”
He moved closer. Our arms were touching, and it had the inexplicable effect of making my entire body heat up.
“I know essential information. You blatantly disregard speed limits and have a sassy streak a mile long. Plus, a wedding is a good excuse to give to your high school crowd.” He winked, looking at me expectantly. I was a little stunned, and I scrambled to gather my wits. I was so very tempted to say yes.
“That’s very flattering, but... no offense, I barely know you. Why do you need to take anyone anyway? Go alone.”
“I risk giving my cousin Pippa a reason to exercise her matchmaking skills.”
I cocked a brow, taking a swig of my soda. “You’re asking me to be your protector?”
“Not how I would put it.” He shifted his weight on the leg closest to me, bending slightly at the waist, towering over me. The effect was overpowering. Fire danced in those deep brown eyes as if daring me to say no. Which I did, of course.
“Answer’s no. I still don’t know you.” I liked him, and I’d had a lot of fun this evening. But I’d still met him just two days ago. “And I should get going.”
“I’ll walk you to your car.”
“I Ubered here.”
“Where are you going? I can drop you off.”
“I’m headed to Venice. Is that on your way?”
He nodded, but I hesitated.
“I’ve never been on a bike.”
“Come on, first time for everything. Including going to a wedding with a guy you just met.”