A Twist of Date Read Free

Ethan?”
    A soft smile played at her lips. “We spent the weekend in San Francisco, and toured the Filoli estate while we were down there. Have you been?”
    “Nope.” Straddling my legs, I tilted over one side, feeling the tight pull in my hamstring. “Never heard of it.”
    Sitting up, she brought a heel to her inner thigh, then folded toward her knee. “It’s a historical country estate in Woodside from the early twentieth-century. The house is amazing, and the gardens are absolutely breathtaking. Definitely worth checking out.”
    I stretched my arms over my head, then leaned forward, wrapping my hands around me foot. “Sounds like a fun day trip. I’ll mention it to Brad.”
    A look I couldn’t read crossed her face. “Things are going well with you two?”
    “Couldn’t be better.” Despite my confident words, Matt’s comment still bugged me, and I had to force a smile. “Brad is a great guy, and I’m really happy.”
    Since Matt’s doubts about Brad flooded my mind throughout class, I felt the need to reaffirm I was excited about our relationship. Kristen didn’t seem to be buying it though, which figures since she’s a family therapist and trained at reading people.
    She straightened her spine, then crossed her legs. “Want to tell me what’s really going on?”
    Sitting up, I sighed. “My friend doesn’t think Brad’s right for me, and I value his opinion.”
    Her face remained blank. “Did he tell you why?”
    “Just that it’s a feeling he has about him.” I glanced toward the door, to make sure no lurking ears could hear us. “He also asked me out this morning.”
    “Ah, the plot thickens.” She leaned toward me. “What did you say?”
    “No, of course.” My cheeks heated, so I fiddled with the end of my ponytail. “I’m with Brad.”
    Her mouth curved upward. “What if you weren’t?”
    I tossed my hair over my shoulder. “You don’t understand. Matt sees lots of women. Another instructor at the gym here went out with him, then learned he was playing the field.”
    She seemed unfazed by my statement. “Were they exclusive?”
    My mouth opened halfway, then paused.
    Her eyes narrowed slightly. “How do you know he wouldn’t settle down with you?”
    My pulse quickened, and I shook my head. “Matt reads Plato, and I read People magazine.
    She shrugged. “Opposites attract all the time. Why not ask him? You said you value his opinion, so I assume he’d be honest with you. Plus, you’re blushing.”
    “Only because this is crazy talk.” I got to my feet, then started collecting my things. “I’m going out with an amazing guy, and tonight Brad and I are taking the next step.”
    She stood, then put a hand on my shoulder. “So long as Brad is who you really want.”
    My stomach clenched. “He is.”
    “Okay.” She pressed her lips together, then glanced at her watch. “I’d better hit the shower. I have an appointment at eight-thirty. Thanks again for the great workout.”
    “Sure.” I pasted on a smile, and wiggled my fingers in her direction. “I’ll see you Thursday.”
    As soon as she was out the door, I fell back onto the mat, our conversation running through my head. No way would I ask Matt to be exclusive with me. He certainly hadn’t wanted to with Erica, and she had guys falling for her all the time.
    Closing my eyes, I could almost feel him rubbing my hands, and my stomach warmed. No, it didn’t mean anything. Matt was just flirting with me, the way he did with practically every girl. Odd that he’d asked me out though. Why had Kristen pressed me about that?
    And why were my cheeks still on fire?
    ****
    Dinner at The Boat House in Old Sacramento had been utterly delicious, not to mention romantic. Then, Brad and I strolled back to my place, hopped on my bed, and we were currently sliding into second base. His mouth explored mine and I felt relieved to be with him—to not have to go through the roller coaster of dating anymore, and whether or not