“I’m not tryin’ to get into anyone’s business, but I just wanted to make sure you and Noah Reid weren’t dating.”
I furrow my brows. “Excuse me?”
She licks her lips. “Well, we made plans for him to play ball with Anthony, but some rumors are swirling that you two have history. Didn’t want to step on any toes if you’re a thing.”
Well shit. What rumors? I’m tempted to ask, but I keep my poker face.
“Noah and I are just friends,” I say as if I’ve rehearsed it a hundred times. “We’ve only ever been friends.”
She releases an exaggerated breath. “Okay, phew. Then I don’t have to feel guilty that we exchanged numbers last weekend.”
I force out a smile. “Nope, guess not.”
“To share a little gossip myself, I’m hoping he’ll ask me out on a date. Wouldn’t we be the cutest couple ever?”
My heart races, and my body feels like it’s on fire. By some higher power of strength, I manage to keep calm and amuse her with an agreeable smile. “Definitely.”
Before this painful conversation continues, Missy calls Brittany forward. She gives me a toothy grin and says goodbye.
I finish my shift with annoyance flowing through my blood. Though Brittany’s clueless about Noah and me, it irritates the hell out of me that we can’t make it public. Aside from what the Reids would say, I’m sure half the town would pass out from shock. People knew we were close growing up, but considering he’s the reason I was a widow at twenty-one, they’d never understand why I’m with him.
Keeping us a secret is hard when chicks like Brittany openly chase after him.
Noah: I miss you. Can’t wait to kiss those delicious lips again ;)
I check my phone after I tuck Owen into bed and take a breather on the couch.
Katie: Which pair?
Noah: BOTH.
I snort, imagining it.
Katie: I ran into your #1 fan today. She’s one restraining order away from forming her own group—an “I heart Noah Reid Club.”
Noah: Do I hear jealousy in your text tone?
Rolling my eyes, I hate how he knows me so damn well.
Katie: Nope. Just thought I’d give you a warning. She asked if we were dating because you two exchanged numbers, and she’s hoping you’ll ask her out.
Noah: Oh boy.
Katie: Is that all you have to say for yourself? You gave her your number?!
Instead of responding, his name pops up on the screen as my phone rings.
“Fangirls Unite, which crazy bitch can I direct your call to?”
Noah barks out a laugh. “Not gonna lie. Kinda like you being the jealous one for a change.”
“Is that so?” I snark.
“Quite refreshing actually.”
“Oh my God.” I groan. “You’re loving this.”
“You’re too easy to rile up, baby girl.”