Chapter 210

He cocked his head, studying her. “I was saying, I called the other night to see if you were free this weekend. I’d love to take you out on another date.”

Regret tightened her stomach. Considering what she’d just admitted to herself, she hated having to reject someone.

“Stoner, you’re incredibly kind and sweet, and I really enjoyed our date, but I’m sorry. I have to say no. I can’t this weekend. Or any other weekend. I—”

He squeezed her elbow, cutting off her explanation. “Let me guess,” he said, a wry smile curving his mouth. “Nick.”

Her lips parted on a soft gasp. Was she so transparent? Damn, how pathetic. “How did you...?”

“How did I know? I might be a little slow on the uptake but looking back on it, you two are very close.”

“We’ve been friends for a long time.”

“Okay, but the way my brother has looked at you is not very...friendly.” He shook his head. “And neither was that kiss at the club, regardless of the story he spun for me. If I