Thirty and Single.

Chapter 15.

I stared at my phone for a few seconds after reading Corey's text.

We need to talk.

Those four words felt like a trapdoor opening beneath me. I took a deep breath, picked up the phone, and called him.

"Hey," I said.

"Hey. Uh... I'd rather talk in person," he replied, voice tight. "I'm outside your place."

What is this, a rom-com directed by a sadistic Cupid?

"Okay, I'll be there in a minute," I said, already grabbing my keys and slipping on my fuzzy house slippers that made me look like I had Muppets on my feet.

When I opened the door, Corey stood there looking like a man about to face a firing squad. His hands were in his pockets, and he was rocking back and forth on his heels.

"Hey, Corey."

"Hi, Genesis." He gave me an awkward smile. "Can we talk?"

"Yeah, come in," I said, holding the door open.

He walked in, sat on the couch, and immediately looked like he wanted to melt into it and disappear. I sat across from him, arms folded.

"So..." I started, raising an eyebrow. "What's this about?"

He exhaled like he'd been holding his breath for three years.

"Okay, so last night I was talking to my family... and somehow, I told them we're dating."

I blinked. "You... somehow?"

He winced. "I don't know how it happened! My mom started asking about my life, and then my aunt chimed in, and I panicked and said I was seeing someone and then... your name came out."

I stared at him. "You accidentally girlfriended me?"

"I know, I know! It's stupid. And now they're dying to meet you. I'm so sorry, Genesis. I know you don't feel that way about me, and now I've put you in this awkward position. I didn't mean to drag you into this—"

"Corey," I interrupted, holding up my hand. "It's fine. I'll meet your family."

His eyes widened like I'd offered him a kidney.

"Really? Are you serious?"

"Yes, I'm serious. I've always wanted to be a fake girlfriend. It's on my bucket list somewhere between skydiving and learning to play the ukulele."

He laughed, clearly relieved. "You're a lifesaver."

"Don't mention it. But you owe me a dessert. Like, a real one. With layers. Preferably chocolate."

"Deal. I'll pick you up tomorrow night. Seven sharp."

"Okay. I'll be ready."

He stood up, looking like he'd just survived the emotional equivalent of an earthquake. "Thanks again. Have a good night, Genesis."

"You too, Corey."

As soon as he walked out, I shut the door and slumped into the couch. Fake dinner date with Corey's family? Great. What could possibly go wrong?

I barely had a moment to overthink before there was another knock.

Did Corey forget his keys? Or his dignity?

I opened the door, and plot twist it wasn't Corey.

"Paisley!" I exclaimed.

"GENESIS!" she shouted back, pulling me into a bear hug that could've dislocated a rib.