Page 143 of Fall Fake-Out

I smile immediately.

Ari

Who says you get to pick me up?

Wade

That’s generally how dates work.

Ari

Is this a date? I mean, you’re a groomsman, and I’m the maid of honor, so technically, we’re just going to the rehearsal because we have to.

Wade

Even if I weren’t part of the wedding party, I’d still be there by your side. You can’t get rid of me that easily, Miss Langford.

I fall back on my bed with a grin.

Ari

Well, if I can’t get rid of you, then I guess you can be my date. But you can’t pick me up. We’re going as a family.

Wade

That’s extremely disappointing.

Ari

If you’re good, maybe I’ll let you drive me home when the night is over.

Wade

In that case, I’ll be on my best behavior. You know what happens at the end of dates, don’t you?

Ari

Hmmm. You might have to show me.

Wade

I plan to.

I stare at the messages for a second longer than necessary before setting my phone down.

Evidence collected.

Wade Stevenson is definitely into me.

Wade

I have attended exactly three wedding rehearsals in my life.

All of them have taken too long.

But I’d be fine if this one lasted all night, because Ari looks incredible in some kind of sweater dress that should be completely innocent.

It isn’t.