Page 34 of The Scientist

“Thanks, Stuart,” I said. “That’s sweet in a twisted sort of way.”

“Sure, and if you ever feel like lowering your standards and dating down a league, I’m always available.”

“I’ll keep that in mind.”

Lex chose not to comment on our conversation, and mercifully, another server came to drop off our food.

“Oh, it’s not over,” Stuart said when he saw how relieved I probably looked. “He’s definitely coming back for your number.”

“You really think he’s going to ask?”

“Uhhhh yeah. That’s what I’ve been telling you.”

“What should I say?”

“Well, do you want to give him your number?”

“No, but I don’t want to embarrass him or hurt his feelings either.”

“Then just say whatever you normally tell guys to let them down,” he said through a mouth full of shrimp tacos.

“Believe it or not, this doesn’t happen to me that often. I’m from New York. No one there tells you you’re beautiful and politely asks for your number. Heckling and catcalling are practically an Olympic sport in our state.”

He shrugged. “I’m sure you’ll think of something.”

We finished our lunch, and I realized Stuart was right again—the food was delicious.

Zack dropped off our check without saying anything, and I paid for mine and Stuart’s after Lex insisted he had nothing to do with the bet, so he wasn’t letting me pay for his. I thought I was home free as we made our way to the exit until Zack stopped me just as we reached the door.

“Hey, could I talk to you for a minute?” he asked.

“We were just leaving,” Lex said impatiently, stepping in front of me.

He looked around Lex at me. “It will only take a second.”

“Okay,” I said, not wanting to be rude.

“Alone?” he asked, eyeing Lex.

Lex didn’t budge as he turned his head to me. “I’ll stay if you want me to.”

“It’s fine,” I told him, knowing Zack wasn’t a threat.

Lex looked at me for a few seconds before turning to glare at Zack as he pushed the door open to leave. Stuart followed behind him, winking at me as he left.

“So, I know you don’t know me very well or at all really, but I was hoping we could change that. Maybe you could give me your number, and I could call you sometime.” Just as Stuart predicted. I hated that he was right.

“I’m sorry, but I don't think it's a good idea,” I said.

“Is it because of that grumpy-looking guy out there?” He nodded toward Lex.

I smiled. “He’s not always so grumpy,” I said, though the evidence was stacked against him. “But no, that’s not it. I’m not really ready to date right now. Thank you, though. I know it’s not easy putting yourself out there.”

He nodded, accepting defeat. I hated the feeling of disappointing someone.

“Well?” Stuart asked as I walked outside to meet them. “Two for two?”

“Oh, that?” I said, sticking my thumb out toward the restaurant. “He just wanted to make sure I knew I could save 15% by switching to Geico.”