Page 22 of The Catch

"Any ideas?" I ask.

"I think it's time for that baking show, Saint."

The smile that appears on her face is one of success. She's been trying to get me into a charity event like this for years.

I rub my bottom lip with a thumb as I consider. My gut instinct is to decline. Baking is something I do for me. It calms me and it benefits my friends, my family, and it makes me feel better when I break up with my companion du jour. Going to a show to be judged for my home cooking skills doesn't excite me, to be frank. I'm no chef, after all…

But Ames is.

I frown. Thoughts of her are never very far. Rather than watching the memory of her pass me by, pretending I don't want to go toward it and ask it to stay, I follow Ames through my mind.

It was a fleeting moment the other night, when I could have revealed too much.

What I really want is…

The silence had been deafening, my words hanging from my tongue. My defenses were nowhere to be seen, and the truth almost slipped out.

… to kiss you and see where that spark goes.

Like a selfish jerk, getting lost in my old feelings for her, rather than giving her the support she needs at this time.

I don't blame myself too harshly for it. I'm only human, after all. My self-interest may be the first instinct, but I have gained some wisdom through the years. I don't have to act on impulse. I can make a choice about what I feel. I must, if I want to avoid hurting people.

The night I danced for Ames, the right choice was to bring back my attention to what she needs. I could make the same decision today.

"Is there a way to get Ames into that show, too?" I finally say. "She could use the opportunity, with everything going on."

Evie purses her lips. "I'll have to see what's out there first. I'll have to reach out to the media, see what I can find that would work for the two of you."

I nod. "I'd appreciate it. Let me know."

"Going back to the club could help, too," Logan adds. "A few people asked about you last time."

"Like I told Logan last year," Evie says, "showing your face and living a life here adds to your social credit in the city."

The corner of my lips pull down. "I'm taking a small break from the club."

While Ames is at my condo, I can't imagine going dancing, drinking, and seducing women. Letting women seduce me. Leaving with someone and taking them to my bed, while Ames stays quiet in her room next to mine.

No need to wonder why but, if someone asks, I'll tell them it's because it would be awkward.

Both Logan and Evie raise their eyebrows high.

I roll my eyes. "It's not that big of a deal."

"Tell that to the people asking about you," Logan says.

"I'm good." I shrug. "You don't need to explain anything to them."

"I told them you have someone at home now." A small curl at the end of his mouth betrays Logan's humor.

I narrow my eyes at him.

A sarcastic arc takes over his eyebrow. "Was I mistaken?"

Evie presses her lips tight not to laugh.

"Look at this comedian." I get up. "I'll be back at the club before you know it. Until then, brunch on Tuesday with the guys."