He nodded. “I guess.”
“You need to call a tow truck.”
“I did as soon as I hung up with the police department.” His mouth drooped and he continued to stare at the car.
I felt awful taking in his depressed demeanor. Moving closer, I put my arm around his shoulder. “I’m sorry this had to happen.”
He straightened, and looped his arm around my waist. “The day was so promising and then this had to happen.”
“As soon as the car is in the shop we can go have a nice long lunch. Then we can go back to my place, and I’ll do what I can to put a smile on your face.”
His lips twitched as he held my gaze. “Is that right?”
“Yep. Gotta take care of my man.” I smirked.
“I like the sound of that.”
I grinned and kissed his stubbly cheek. “I thought you might. I know a way to a man’s heart.”
His expression softened. “I’m beginning to think you certainly know the way to mine.”
I didn’t respond, but I had to admit, I liked hearing that Tanner was catching feelings for me too because I was definitely falling for him.
Chapter Ten
Tanner
Maybe I shouldn’t have thrown Seth into the middle of a party with my friends cold turkey. From the tension on his face, and the way he was eyeing the exit, I had a feeling he was counting the seconds until we could leave.
I pressed my hand to the small of his back, trying to give him silent support as my buddy Julio rattled on about his ski trip in Switzerland.
“It’s one of the only resorts where I feel safe skiing without a bodyguard.” Julio ran a hand over his jet black hair. “Much to my bodyguard’s chagrin.”
I forced a smile. “Still getting death threats from you ex-girlfriend?”
Julio shrugged. “What can I say? I’m a hard man to get out of your system.”
Seth shifted and sipped his champagne. It felt nice having him next to me, even though I knew he wasn’t enjoying himself. But I was happy to know I got to drag him back to my house afterwards. This was the first time he’d come to visit me in San Luis Obispo. Usually I always drove down to him. When I’d suggested he accompany me to this party, he’d come up with a bunch of excuses, but finally he’d given in. I liked that about Seth; if he knew he’d hurt my feelings he was always quick to try and fix it. He had such a kind heart it made me want to be a better man.
“So how did you two meet?” Julio’s new girlfriend, Gloria eyed Seth. “Tell me all the deets.”
Seth visibly winced.
I spoke so he wouldn’t have to. “I just stumbled into Seth’s shop, and the rest, as they say, is history.” I gave Seth an affectionate smile.
“Yeah. I almost drowned him and it worked like a charm.” Seth grinned back at me.
“What sort of business do you own?” Gloria arched one perfect eyebrow.
Seth hesitated, but then he lifted his chin, and said, “I own a surf shop on the beach.”
“Really?” She gave a sharp laugh, maybe thinking he was joking.
“He gave me a surf lesson.” I met her puzzled gaze. “He’s a good teacher.”
“Obviously.” Julio twisted his lips. “You must be teacher’s pet.”
“Wow, that’s like a Cinderella story.” Gloria laughed, giving Julio a knowing glance. “Rags to riches and all that.”
