“Yeah, there isn't much food I don’t like.”
“You cook?” He glances over at me. Why would I want to cook if I could do this? I’m enjoying sitting here drinking the wine he poured me while I watch him. Who knew cooking could be sexy?
“I know how. I’m just not the best at it. My mom is a crazy good cook, so I let her do her thing, and I sit back and enjoy the finished product.”
“You still live with your parents?” I take another drink of my wine to stall. “There is nothing wrong with that. Unless you hate it there. You should stay here. I have lots of room as you can see.” My wine goes down the wrong pipe, causing me to cough at his suggestion.
“Did you just ask me to move in?” He shrugs. “My mom would just show up here with food for both of us.” I laugh because it’s the truth. “Then she’d start planning our wedding. Probably best we don’t cohabitate.”
“I don’t see the problem.” He stares at me, and for the life of me I can’t read his expression to know if he’s joking.
“To be honest, I might have some issues. I’ve stayed in Cherry Falls because I like being in a small town and being close to my family. I know it’s strange. Most people can’t wait to get out of their parents’ house, but I never felt that way. I’m an adult, and I’m sure a therapist could dig into that, but I’m happy, so does it really matter?”
“If it doesn't matter, why are you so defensive about it? You don’t have to explain yourself to anyone. Except your parents. If you're happy then that’s all that matters.”
Him saying that only makes me feel more attracted to him.
“I did explain it to them, so they built an apartment over the garage for me,” I mutter. “They could definitely be considered enablers.”
He laughs. “Do I live far from them?”
“No.” I think I might have said too much. This guy is going to end up running from me, and I am going to need that dating app if I keep it up. I fight a smile thinking about how jealous he was over the idea of me being on one. I’m not the one with millions of fans, half I’m sure are female and would love to spend a night in his bed.
That said, I think his bed has been pretty empty since he’s gotten to Cherry Falls. No one knows he’s here. I’ve been keeping up online, and everyone is still wondering where he is. I’m not sure I want to blow his cover. I think that’s why I haven't pushed for the story he’s offering to me on a silver platter. One he wants to give me along with a side of orgasms.
“Then maybe it would be good for you to stay here for a little while. Spread your wings a little without having to worry about anything.”
“Why would I move in with you when I don’t live far? I’ve never said you’re getting into my pants.” I put that out there just to make sure we’re clear. Even though I can’t stop thinking about kisses the other day. He doesn’t need to know that, though.
“I didn't say you had to let me in order for you to stay here.”
“I don’t understand.”
Corby flicks off the stove, coming over toward me. “When you’re around I get this buzz inside of me. I think it might help me write again.”
“Oh. So, I’m like a muse,” I tease, smiling at him. He doesn't smile. He’s serious.
“You could get your story. A real one. You could spend time with me and get to know Corby O’Neal. The one everyone wants to know about.” He shakes his head, clearly not getting it.
He’s got a brilliant mind, and yet he doesn't understand the fascination people might have with that. It’s the same crap with people who are obsessed with killers. People want to understand how other people think because they themselves lack the ability to think in the same way. Humans are curious creatures. I myself am one.
“This isn’t about sex.” I drop my head back. I kind of want it to be about sex. Here in front of me is a hot man that hasn't slept with everyone in and around Cherry Falls. Why not have some fun with him? What’s the worst that could happen? Besides me getting my heart broken and him going on to nail all the women around here. That would burn.
“Don’t get me wrong, I'm still going to try to sleep with you.”
I snort a laugh. At least he’s honest. “Can I make up my mind after I eat your food?”
“Is that going to weigh in on your decision?”
“Maybe.” No. I kind of like his idea. If I do decide to stay here, I could get to know him better and write a great piece on him. One that could land me in a magazine and get me national attention. Not to mention the experience I’ll get exploring things with him sexually. I’m way too old to be a virgin, but my choices have been slim pickings around here.