Chapter 157

"I figured if you were in a hurry, you'd come looking for me, so I left it open for you," Hayden replied like it was no big deal.

And yet, like an idiot, I asked, "So you came out like that on purpose?"

His Adam's apple bobbed as he swallowed. "No, I heard my phone ringing and came out to grab it. I didn't expect... well, the timing..."

Yeah, just perfect timing.

At least he had a great body, so it wasn't the worst thing to catch a glimpse.

On the way to the Johnston residence, Hayden stayed quiet.

I figured he was probably nervous. "When we get to the Johnstons', all you have to do is say hello. I'll take care of any awkward questions."

"Okay," he nodded.

"And if Jace is there and tries to be a jerk or make things hard for you, don't hold back," I added.

"Got it."

"Oh, and one more thing—we should get our story straight. We'll say we met in Chiverton, and, um," I paused, feeling my face heat up, "you're interested in me... so you followed me here."

"I don't think I'll have