Chapter 96

AMELIA Iforce a laugh, hoping he doesn’t notice that I’m faking it. It’s not that Jacob isn’t funny or that he’s not a great guy. He’s just not Drake James, which really isn’t his fault. “So how are you liking New York?” he asks as he tops up our wine glasses. “Well, I was born and raised here,” I remind him. I told him only last week that I’d moved back here from Philly to be closer to my mom. He coughs awkwardly. “Of course. I remember you mentioning that now. I’m sorry. I’m not usually so forgetful. But damn.” He uses a napkin to mop his brow. “First dates make me nervous as hell. Especially with someone like you.” That makes me laugh for real. “Someone like me?” He smiles, and the dimple in his chin pops. “Yeah. You know—drop-dead gorgeous, funny, intelligent. Did I already say drop-dead gorgeous?” Before I can reply, my phone vibrates on the table, shocking us both into a nervous giggle. “I’m sorry, Jacob, it could be my mom.” “Of course. Go ahead.” I flip the phone over, and the