A Betting Man

Chapter Sixteen

Justin's Point of View

I blink at Kathleen, sure I've misunderstood her. "You did what?"

"I invited her to dinner. I'm not going to be in town long, and I wanted to get to know her some more before I left. I brought some clothes so she won't have to drive all the way back to Seattle just for something clean to wear." Kathleen says this as though we're having the most natural conversation in the world. My eyes fall on Addie, who's regarding me with wide, wary eyes. "Right, Addie?" Kathleen seeks her confirmation on the matter. This only seems to unnerve Addie more.

"Um, yeah," she mutters. She looks at me. "Sorry, I completely forgot to mention it..."

"Oh, don't be sorry," Kathleen interrupts. I'm aghast, unable to believe this is really happening. Are these girls conspiring against me?

"You don't mind, do you, Justin?" Addie asks, her tone uncertain.

What can I possibly say to that? Of course I mind, Addie. I can think of nothing worse in the entire universe than having you accompany me to a family dinner. Well, except for this whole little bet thing I've forgotten to tell you about...

Yeah, that would go over real well. I tug my hair, certain this woman is going to drive me bald.

Kathleen speaks before I have the chance. "Why would he mind?" She looks from me to Addie in question.

"I don't mind," I finally answer. Addie doesn't look convinced.

"Are you sure?"

"Yes," I say quickly, and then I repeat Kathleen's earlier question. "Why would I mind? Of course you can come."

I replay the statement in my head, hoping to let it sink in. Hoping to find some truth in the words.

But I do mind. I've never brought a girl home to meet Pattie and Jeremy. And Addie, well, she's an incredible girl – I can think of no one better to bring home - but I've still only known her for a week. That's not even taking into consideration what will happen if she learns the truth of our relationship.

Holy fuck, I think I need a drink - my life is becoming a soap opera.

Kathleen bounces over to Addie. "Come on, let's go change and make sure all the clothes fit." Addie looks at me again, still wary, and I force a smile to reassure her that everything is fine. They disappear up the stairs, Kathleen chattering madly about one of the dresses she brought.

When I hear the door close upstairs, I release a suppressed sigh. I want to call Cayden, but I already know what he'll say: "What's the problem, man? You obviously like her. It's about time you brought a girl home for dinner... for fuck's sake, your folks just have to think you're gay by now."

Cayden has never approved of my behavior. He loves women, cherishing them, never showing blatant disrespect. Until now, I'd like to think I never have either, although some would disagree. But everything has been consensual; I've never pressured anyone into doing something they didn't want to do. I'd never pressure Addie, either...

But I'd lie to her. I'd lie and tell her things she wants to hear, things to make her blush. I'd tell her things that leave her wanting more, aching for more...

And that's disrespectful.

I enter the kitchen, shaking my head in forlorn realization. Perhaps I should just tell her. Perhaps, tonight, I will.

I pour a small glass of brandy and swallow it down, not enough to get drunk, but hopefully enough to take the edge off. I find my phone and notice I have a missed call from Pattie. When did it ring?