Just Don't Fall (Sweater Weather, #1; Appies, #1)

by Emma St. Clair

do you have any pertinent things to discuss?” “Like Dad’s gala?” I start to sweat under my jacket. We’re walking awfully close to the landmine that is my big lie. “Can we talk about something more pleasant, please? Like inflation?” Brandon chuckles. “Still in denial about the gala, huh?” “What gala?” Brandon laughs. “You know he doesn’t believe you can find a date on your own, right?” Normally, this would start a verbal lashing back and forth. But right now, I’m just grateful. Because now I’m certain Brandon doesn’t know about my lie. “Is it so hard to believe?” I ask lightly. “Not because you’re not awesome, Park.” “Aw, thank you! That was almost a compliment.” “It’s because you never date.” What is it with my family and my dating life today? I SWEAR. “I date.” “What’s the name of the last guy you went on a date with?” Brandon demands. “Jere … brian.” I clear my throat. “Jerebrian.” “Sounds like a winner.” “It’s not his fault his parents chose a terrible name.” Or that he doesn’t exist and I made him up just now. “So, are you bringing Jerebrian to the gala?” “No. It didn’t work out.” “Why not?” Brandon asks, and I just know he knows that Jerebrian isn’t real and is waiting for me to admit it. I’d prefer to double down instead. “Jerebrian, as it turns out, lives with his parents. And has no job. And also Mr. Eds didn’t like him.” Brandon snorts. “Your cat hates everyone. Including you.” He’s not wrong. My rescue cat spends most of his time skulking under my furniture and t...