“What are you doing here?” Gunther asked his ex-girlfriend, Kylie Porter.

“I’m happy to see you too, Mr. Grumpy,” Kylie said. “This is a restaurant, isn’t it? I came for lunch.”

Even he wasn’t that dumb. Anytime Kylie showed up something always happened. And not in a good way.

All the waiters were busy.

“Let me see if I can find you a table for one,” Gunther said.

“Why don’t you see if you can find a table for two and join me for lunch?” Kylie said.

Gunther stared at her. Kylie was very pretty, wore designer clothing, and owned one of the successful taverns in Milwaukee. But there were things about her he didn’t like. She was a liar, a cheat, and basically a bitch. And on top of all that, she was terrible in bed. It was like having sex with a wet rock. A man like him craved excitement, spontaneity, and a partner who knew their way around a man’s body. Breaking up with her was the best thing he ever did in his life.

Louis walked past him toward the door. He returned with two guys. They were young and well-dressed in suits. One of them was gorgeous, if he could say that about a guy.

“What are you watching?” Kylie asked him.

“Nothing,” Gunther answered.

“You’re not a very good liar,” Kylie said. “Who is that with Louis?”

“Business acquaintances.”

“Is that what they call dates now?” Kylie asked sarcastically.

Gunther refused to entertain her at his brother’s expense.

One of the guys got out of his seat and passed them again. Gunther liked his cologne and the cut of his suit. He found Kylie staring at him when he stopped watching the guy.

A table became available by the window. It was right next to the one Louis was entertaining his guests. Gunther watched the waitress clean it up and get it ready for the next guest. “Your table is ready.” He escorted her over to it.

“How would you like to be my date for Valentine’s Day?” Kylie asked. “My tavern is hosting a big party and you and Louis are invited.”

“Sorry, I’ll be busy that night,” Gunther answered.

“I mean after the restaurant closes,” Kylie said.

“Can’t.” Gunther said.

“Why not?”

The guy in Louis’s party, who had left, exited the men’s room, drying his hands on a paper towel. Gunther could see him from where he stood. The guy tossed the towel into the trash, then headed back into the main dining room.

“I’m still waiting for an answer,” Kylie said.

“Because I already have a date,” Gunther lied.

Kylie acted like she didn’t believe him. “With who?”

Without thinking he just grabbed the guy who was heading for Louis’ table. Gunther winked at him, hoping he’d play along with the lie. “With him. I have a date with this guy on Valentine’s Day.”

Kylie paled and sputtered, “You do not.”

Gunther got more daring. He pulled the guy closer and whispered in his ear. “Play along with this, please.” Then he spoke louder so Kylie could hear. “Can you please tell my ex that I can’t spend Valentine’s Day with her because you and I have a date that night.”

The guy’s expression went from anger to curious. “Yes, it’s true.”

“If it’s the truth, what is his name?” Kylie asked the stranger.

“His name is Gunther Hans Mueller.”

Gunther looked down into the handsome face. How the fuck does he know that? Maybe Louis told him.

Louis and the other guy at the table were watching, along with mostly everyone else in ear range.

“But he’s a guy,” Kylie said, still not believing.

“So,” Gunther said, trying to sound convincing.

“Then kiss him.”

He didn’t have to prove anything to Kylie, but he wanted to shut her up. It all boiled down to how low he would go not to go out on a date with Kylie Porter. “Pucker up, baby.”

The guy looked up at him and puckered.