Page 21 of I Wish He Would

“That’s great.” My smile feels a little forced. “I’m all ears.”

She dives in, telling me all about their date. I have to give the guy props for renting out the coffee shop in a more secluded part of town without the pressure of fans staring or the paparazzi. I have my fair share of fans who recognize me around Louisville, but I don’t carry the same kind of celebrity status Rhett does.

“He asked for my number at the end of the date, and he’s texted me every day since then.”

“Sounds like it was perfect.”

Alyssa nods. “Without a doubt the best first date I’ve ever been on.” She drops her gaze to the pillow on her lap, wearing a soft smile.

There’s a sinking feeling in my gut. I grab one of the kitchen sink cookies and take a large bite. I’ll have to do a little extra cardio today, but I need something else to focus on other than whatever weird feelings are stirring in me.

“Where’s your head at?” I ask.

“I’m enjoying getting to know him, even if it’s over text. But it almost feels too good to be true.”

“How so?”

Alyssa shifts, snuggling further into the cushion. “All of his answers to every question are just so…perfect. It’s not like I think he’s lying. Rhett is truly an amazing guy.” She shrugs. “I don’t know. Maybe if we were getting to know each other in person or via video call, it would feel more…”

She purses her lips like she can’t find the right word.

“Authentic?” I guess.

She sighs. “Yeah. It just sucks because I do think he’s authentic, and I see why the girls set us up, but I wish he lived closer or that we had more time to get to know each other in a more personal way than texts.”

“Was he not upfront about that?”

“No, he was. I guess I just didn’t realize how hard it would be.” She shakes her head. “I don’t want to sound like I’m complaining, because he’s great. And I really am loving our conversations.”

“But it’s hard getting to know someone when the conversation is drawn out through text messages with long breaks in between,” I say.

“Exactly. But I’m excited to see where things go.”

I finish off my cookie and take a long swig of water. “Have you asked him to go to your cousin’s wedding?”

“No. I don’t want to freak him out. Like, hi, I just met you for the first time, and I know we’ve only been talking for a week, but do you want to come to my cousin’s wedding with me?” She leans closer. “Oh, by the way, did I mention she’s marrying my ex?”

I grimace. “I can see how that would be a little intimidating.”

“A little?” Alyssa scoffs.

“Is there ever a right time to ask a new partner to go to a family wedding with you?”

“I don’t know.” She laughs. “But definitely more than a week.”

“Fair.” I clasp my hands behind my head and stretch. It almost looks like Alyssa watches my arms with rapt attention, but I must be seeing things. She’s probably daydreaming about Rhett Hayes. “I hope you’re able to talk to him soon.”

She smiles. “We have a video call planned for this weekend.”

I pick up another cookie from the plate and toss it to her. She catches it with a laugh. “What was that for?”

“You nibbled on one cookie. You need more sugar to sustain you.”

“You know me well.” She takes a giant bite and moans. “Maybe too well.”

“There’s no such thing.”

She eats another bite. “Thanks for listening, Slugger.”