Faking with Benefits

by Lily Gold

“I’m Layla.” I stick out my hand. His eyebrow twitches. “How formal.” He shakes my hand firmly. “Joshua.” I nod. “Well, Joshua. What makes you think you can do better than the 120 men who came before you?” Josh shrugs a shoulder, his eyes not leaving mine. “I’m a hard worker.” “You say that now, but I’m a pretty difficult girlfriend. I’m not sure you could handle me.” Josh’s eyes spark. “I bet we have more in common than you think.” “Doubt it.” “Try me.” I narrow my eyes. Well. Zack did tell me to be honest. “I’m a workaholic.” “Me, too,” Josh counters. “I’ve never had a boyfriend.” “Me, neither.” I snort. “I’ve been told that I’m high-maintenance.” “I’d do whatever you wanted me to,” he says softly, and his low voice suddenly sounds so dirty that my insides clench. Jesus. “How are you still single?” I blurt out. It is ridiculous that a man this hot hasn’t found a partner. Something odd flickers over his expression. “I’m saving myself for you,” he informs me drily, leaning back in his seat. “Obviously.”