Chapter 137

“Not many times. My main goal with these dates is to find a like-minded partner,” Pete said, and I almost rolled my eyes.

Like-minded? Pete’s idea of a “like-minded partner” probably meant someone else who was also interested in making money this way, so they could hustle together. People said it was tough to find a job these days, but if you were clever, there were plenty of ways to make easy money, sometimes without any upfront investment.

“So, are you sure you want to hire me as your boyfriend, or do you want to try dating me for real?” Pete asked again.

I pressed my lips together, remaining silent. He took a sip of his coffee, smoothly and gracefully. “Usually, a smart girl would opt for dating. That way, you don’t have to pay anything. And if it doesn’t work out, you can always break up later.”

“If everyone did that, wouldn’t you be losing out?” I stirred my coffee.

“Not everyone gets the option. If someone has certain requirements, I’ll assess their situation before deciding,” Pete explained.

I understood his implication—he was interested in me and offering a chance to try things out without charging. “So, is there some VIP discount or a special deal on the services you mentioned?” I asked, honestly a little unnerved by the prices he’d quoted. Holding hands for $30? And if I hired him to go to the Johnstons’, I’d definitely have to do that in front of Jace.

“Nope,” Pete said flatly. “No negotiations.”

I nodded. “Got it. I’ll need some time to think it over. You can wait for my response, but feel free to take on other clients in the meantime. If something better comes along, you’re free to decline.”

As I said that, it hit me—this wasn’t a date; it felt more like a business meeting.

Pete looked at me seriously. “I’m really interested in working with you.”

“Yes, I understand, but I’d like to explore other options first. You know, choose the best fit,” I said, striving for a businesslike tone.

“Alright, I’ll be waiting to hear from you,” Pete said, raising his hand to signal the server. “Check, please. I’ll cover hers too,” he offered smoothly.

I shook my head. “No need, let’s just split it.”

Pete didn’t insist. He scanned the payment code with his phone, gave a quick nod, and left with a smile. I stayed in the café for a while longer, considering things before heading out. Since Lena was working late, I couldn’t stay at her place, so I grabbed some food at a nearby restaurant. Afterward, I wandered through the night market, picking up a few small trinkets. By the time I got home, it was nearly eleven.

The night felt oddly heavy, as if it were about to rain. As soon as I got out of the car, a cold shiver ran down my spine. I instinctively pulled up my collar, and that’s when I got the unsettling feeling that someone was watching me.

I spun around, but saw no one.

I dismissed it as my imagination, but the unease lingered. My gut urged me to hurry, so I quickened my pace toward my building and rushed upstairs. But just as I reached the second floor, I felt an overwhelming sense that someone was right behind me. To make matters worse, the hallway lights were out.

Panic seized me, and I quickened my pace, almost running. Of course, I was wearing heels, so running was nearly impossible.

The footsteps behind me grew louder, as if whoever it was, was gaining on me.

I tightened my grip on my bag and pulled out my car key, clutching it as if it were a weapon. If someone was about to attack me, I’d be ready to defend myself.

Suddenly, I decided not to continue upward. If I led this person to my door, it would only make things worse later.

I stopped abruptly, and the footsteps behind me stopped too.

After taking a deep breath, I called out in a shaky voice, “Who’s there?”