Page 125 of Dickathlon

“Well, if they are looking, it’s only because we’re smoking hot and they’re jealous. Take a deep breath.”

I heard him do just that beside me as we kept descending.

“How do your parents know this many people?”

“I told you they’re connected.”

“I just didn’t think a surgeon and a fo-model had this kind of pull.”

“Nice save.” I laughed. “You’re so cute, Ty. This is LA. Welcome to the land of superficiality.”

We had finally reached the floor. “That doesn’t bother you?”

I shrugged. “I know that’s not who I am. And while my parents might feed into it, they’re not really that way either.” Ty gave me the look. “Okay, maybe my mom can be sometimes.”

It didn’t take long for my parents to find us.

“Looks like a great party, Avery.”

Hey, that’s my line.

“Thank you, Tyler. You look very handsome tonight.”

“She’s right, son. I think you might be the best-looking couple here.”

“Okay, before this gets any more awkward. Merry Christmas Eve!” I said, hugging both of them.

“Aw, honey, I wish you didn’t have to leave tonight.”

“Mom, I already explained. It’s a big deal for Ty to miss tonight with his family. That’s never happened before, and I won’t let him miss Christmas too.”

“I know, I know. Can’t a mom complain about wanting her only son around more? You know you’re missing dinner with the Campbells too.”

“Not sure missing is the right word.”

She didn’t acknowledge my slight dig because someone came up to her and started a conversation. I pulled Ty to the side and we made a quick escape.

I suggested we head to the bar to get some drinks. Ty seemed nervous so I made small talk about the specialty drinks the bar service always came up with and complimented him again on his outfit. By the time we were at the front of the line, he seemed a little calmer. I ordered a Peppermint White Russian and Ty tried the Gingerbread Martini.

“Oh wow, this is good,” Ty mumbled, before taking another sip.

“Can I try?”

“If I can try yours.”

We swapped drinks and I led us to a quiet corner. I realized I had made my way to a familiar place.

“Somehow I knew I’d find you here.”

“Freddie!” I pulled him in for a hug, then Ty did the same.

“What do you mean? How’d you find us?” Ty asked.

“Declan thinks this is a good hiding spot,” Freddie explained. “Plus it’s where we met a year ago.”

“Aw, the beginning of your fake relationship that I destroyed.” Ty clutched at his chest in jest.

“It is a quiet corner.”