The Bluff (Love Stories in Sheet Cake, Texas, #2)

by Emma St. Clair

Mari slides the check to Chevy. I try to grab it, but he holds it out of reach and already has cash in hand. “Keep the change,” he says, then winks at me. “I asked you out, so dinner’s on me.” “Does this mean I’ll get a second date?” I ask, taking a bite of pie, letting the flavors explode on my tongue. It is every bit as good as it sounded. No, better. Chevy chuckles. “That depends.” He grips his fork like a weapon and pins me with a surprisingly intense gaze. “What are your intentions with my sister?” I choke on my pie. Chevy passes me a stack of napkins, a knowing smile on his face. “What?” I ask, when I’m finally composed enough to speak. “I said, what are your intentions with Winnie?” “She works for me.” Chevy rolls his eyes. “Obviously. But I’ve seen you two together and there’s this … I don’t know, something between you. And whether it’s actual dislike or an attraction you’re both pretending doesn’t exist, I figured it best to discuss now, before we have a problem.” “We won’t have a problem.” Even as I say the words, I feel like I’m trying to convince myself as much as Chevy. I already feel like Winnie is a problem. Or, at least, the complicated reactions I have to her are a problem. “I hope not. Because I kind of like you and your family.” Chevy plays with his fork, dragging it through the whipped cream melting on his plate. “Ever since our dad died, I’ve been waiting to ask someone what their intentions are with my sister. I’m not passing up this first opportunity...