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“But?”

I glance down at the table, then make myself look at him.

“I don't think I'm in the right place to be dating anyone right now.”

He studies me for a moment.

“Is there someone else?”

My stomach drops.

Because the answer should be no.

Wyatt isn't my boyfriend. We haven't even been on a date. We've kissed once, almost kissed a second time, and spent an embarrassing amount of time pretending neither of those things means anything.

But I can't exactly say no, either.

“It's complicated,” I admit.

Adam nods slowly. “Got it.”

“I'm really sorry. I probably should've figured that out before tonight.”

“Hey, it's okay.” He gives me a small smile. “I'd rather you tell me now than go on three more dates because you're trying to be polite.”

I let out a breath.

“Honestly? I was about thirty seconds away from doing exactly that.”

He laughs. “Well, thanks for stopping yourself.”

“I'm sorry.”

He asks for the check, and I offer to split it. He insists on paying, and after a brief argument, I let him.

When we step outside, the night air is cool against my bare arms.

“Can I give you a ride home?” Adam asks.

I hesitate. “You really don't have to.”

“I know. But I'd feel like a jerk leaving you to find your own way home.”

I smile. “Okay. Thanks.”

The drive back is surprisingly comfortable. We talk a little about the restaurant, and Adam tells me about another place I should try sometime. He doesn't suggest we go together, and I'm grateful for that.

For the first time all evening, I don't feel like I have to work so hard. I can just sit here, looking out the window, without worrying about whether a stretch of silence means I've failed at something.

When he pulls up outside my building, he turns down the music.

“Well, this is you.”

“Yeah.” I unbuckle my seat belt and turn toward him. “Thank you for tonight, Adam. And for being so understanding.”

“Night, Quinn. It was nice meeting you.”

I get out and give him a little wave before heading inside.