Page 29 of I Wish He Would

My jaw drops. Those words. His manly voice. The protective hold he has on my waist. He’s hotter than noon on the Fourth of July. Hotter than blue blazes. Hotter than a pepper patch. I’m digging up all the old Southern phrases my grandmother used because this moment—this man—is worthy of them. He’s nothing like my string of bad first dates.

He’s here, saving me, when he doesn’t even know me. He had no reason to go along with my charade, but he did it anyway. I’d be willing to bet all the money I made today that he’d say it was nothing or that he was happy to help, which only makes him even more attractive.

Bradley’s brow furrows, probably in annoyance that someone would dare speak back to a Vanderbilt. But once he looks up at the handsome stranger’s face, all annoyance is replaced by shock. “You—” He blinks as if he’s seeing things, then points up at him. “You’re Austin Bradford.”

“That’s my name,” Austin deadpans.

Austin Bradford.

I like it.

“You’re the ne…new shortstop for the Mustangs,” Bradley stammers, still looking like a deer in the headlights. “My family purchases a box suite every season.”

“I prefer to think of myself as this beautiful woman’s date.” Austin smiles down at me.

The way he so casually stands up for me and also deflects all of Bradley’s self-absorbed comments makes me practically fall for him on the spot. I definitely grabbed the right man for this job.

Bradley gawks as he looks between us. Bianca’s lips pucker like she sucked on a lemon. “You’re here with Alyssa?” Austin nods and Bianca scoffs. “Why? You’re an MLB player. You could get any girl you want.”

“Then it shouldn’t be shocking that I’d be with the most beautiful woman in the room.”

Three Years Ago

I beam up at Austin, pretending this is real. Pretending he truly thinks I’m the most beautiful woman in the room.

A small dimple appears at the corner of his mouth when he returns my smile. It’s adorable and makes him feel a little more human. I also can’t help but love that he complimented me and dissed Bianca. Normally, I’m a girls’ girl through and through, but I think I can make an exception for my cousin who is dating my ex and talks down to me every time I see her. There’s a reason my friends call her the Regina George of Louisville.

“Her company is so sought-after that she has an even more illustrious gathering to attend tonight.” Austin dips his chin in the barest of nods. “If you’ll excuse us.”

I offer them a small wave as he pulls me away. I have to press my lips together to keep from laughing at their bewildered expressions. Austin’s tone was so kind that I’m sure they’re going to be left wondering all night if he was complimenting or mocking them.

Austin leads me through the tables and holds the door for me to exit into the hallway. Once we’re alone, I exhale a laugh. “You were amazing back there.”

He chuckles. “It was a fun acting debut.”

I hold an imaginary award out to him. “I hereby give you an honorary Oscar for your role as stand-in date.”

Austin accepts the invisible award. His hand brushes mine in the process and goose bumps cover my arms again. He raises it, looking like John Cusack holding the boombox over his head. My romance-loving heart can’t take much more of this perfect man without bursting.

He glances down at my arms, and I try to hide them behind my back before he can see the evidence of what his touch caused. “Are you cold?” He’s already shrugging off his suit jacket before he can answer. “Here.” Austin drapes it over my shoulders, and I’m hit with warmth and the scent of his cologne. It’s subtle and clean. Exactly what I’d expect from the little I know about him.

“Thanks.” I cross my arms, holding it on. “For everything.”

“Ah.” Austin waves his hand in the air. “It was nothing. I’m glad I could help.” He blows out a breath. “Those people were a trip. You said that was your ex?”

“Unfortunately.” I grimace. “Bradley Vanderbilt. And his new girlfriend is Bianca Cartwright.” I pause for dramatic effect. “My cousin.”

“Your cousin?” His eyes bug out. “Man, no wonder you grabbed the nearest stranger. I would’ve done the same thing.”

I shake my head. “You don’t have to try to make me feel better.”

“I’m not.” He squeezes my shoulder. “I know it’s none of my business, but why do you let them belittle you like that?”

“I avoid conflict like it’s my job.” I let out a self-deprecating laugh. “The thought of confronting someone makes me feel like I’m going to break out in hives.” Real smooth, Alyssa. Now the handsome stranger is probably envisioning me covered in red bumps. “Plus, my cousin has been like that my whole life. There’s no use trying to talk to someone who will never see reason.”

“That makes sense. She was a piece of work.” He nudges me. “I’m glad I was here to step in. No one should have to deal with people like that alone.”

“You’re too kind.” I scrunch my nose, trying to remember his name. “Austin, right?”