Romancing the Grump (Appies, #4)

by Jenny Proctor

Though it’s going to feel like miles if Nathan is silent the entire way. “Um, sorry if I messed up your plans back there,” I say a little sheepishly. He looks over. “What plans?” “I don’t know. You seemed irritated that I was coming with you. I thought maybe you wanted to find the woman who asked for a photo.” His frown deepens. “What? No. I don’t really…do that. And she reminded me of my mom.” His words make me unreasonably happy, and I have to stop myself from grinning. “I mean, I was also getting the mom vibes, but I didn’t want to judge.” Nathan doesn’t say anything else, so I keep rambling. “Though, you have to admit, she totally qualifies as a hot mom.” He gives me a sideways look. “A hot mom?” “Oh, come on. You know what I mean. They’re all over Instagram. They’re the ones with perfect wavy hair and adorable children who look like they’re constantly modeling for Gap Kids and Christmas presents all wrapped in matching white and gold paper and little lunch bento boxes for their kids, full of fresh fruits and vegetables and toasted quinoa.” Nathan huffs out a laugh. “I’m not on Instagram. And that doesn’t sound real.” “It probably isn’t,” I say. “But the hotness is. These women are gorgeous. That mom back there would totally qualify, so, I’m just saying, I wouldn’t fault you if you wanted to…go after her.” His steps slow, then stop as he looks over and studies me, his expression curious, maybe even a little amused. “Do you always say exactly what you’re thinking?” I st...