We Could Do This Tonight

We Could Do This Duet #2

by Emerson Beckett

How do I choose which heart to break? No matter who I choose, I'm going to be the loser.Alejandro

Three years ago, Ben walked into my Portland bar and stole my heart with one look. It didn’t matter that I’m 21 years older than him. All he wants is me.

Benjamin’s beautiful smile and endless charm attract everyone he meets, including my 20-year-old daughter, Anna.

No one knows about all the things he and I have done together. And I’ve made sure to keep it from her.

My carefully constructed life built upon rules and my duty to my family is about to crumble before my eyes because she and I want the same thing—Ben.

In the end, keeping us a secret may cost me both of them. I’m in an impossible love triangle that, no matter which one I choose, I’m going to lose.

And when someone attacks my bar via social media, it’s all I can take.

So, which do I choose? Anna’s happiness? Or a life with Ben?



Ben

I knew I loved Alejandro Sanchez the moment our eyes met across the bar. There was something about the single dad and bar owner that I couldn’t get enough of.

After three long years, he’s finally okay with us. But when he refuses to tell Anna about us, I take matters into my own hands.

I’ll do whatever needs to be done to keep him in my life, even if it means accepting a date with Anna.



We Could Do This Tonight is an age gap, single dad, boss/employee love triangle romance and the second book in the We Could Do This Duet. It is the tenth book set in the Package Deal World with reoccurring characters from the original series. It is best enjoyed after reading We Could Do This Forever.

Note to the If you have not read the Package Deal Series , you might find it beneficial to start there and refer to the reading order for the PD World within the books. All the books are available through Kindle Unlimited.

Genres: M M Romance, LGBT, Friends To Lovers, Romance, M M Contemporary, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary

291 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 12, 2024

About the author

Emerson Beckett is no longer new to the publishing world. As an avid sports fan and lover of well-written M/M romance books, Emerson loves her new career as an author of gay romance. It’s even more fulfilling for her when she can combine the two.

The journey to becoming an author started with an idea while reading on the sofa. That idea became an email that ultimately resulted in Emerson using those teacher skills to edit novels for three phenomenal MM romance authors. The third referral led to an opportunity to co-write a book series with one of the most genuine and kindest people she’s ever had the pleasure of knowing- Rheland Richmond.

Emerson is the co-author of The Package Deal Series, The Portland Protectors Series, and the San Diego Storm Series. She has 16 published books.

Besides being a retired teacher and author, Emerson lives in North Carolina and has been married to the same man for 35 years. She is the mother of three beautiful adults, one of whom is proudly part of the LGBTQ Community and completely responsible for her addiction to MM Romance. Even though the kids no longer live at home, they filled the empty nest with an Australian Shepherd and five cats.

Reviews

[Jacqueleen the Reading Queen♡ · Rating 5 out of 5]

"My heart broke for both of us. It shouldn't be this difficult to be with someone you love. And I loved him more than he knew."


Ugh these two!! I wanted to smack Alejandro upside the head! And I was not alone in that feeling. I'm just thankful he had such amazing people in his life to make him see how wonderful his life could be if he just let himself give in. And Ben. Ben was a freaking SAINT. Not only that, but boy was a total freaking catch and could have had anyone he wanted in a flash. But he didn't want anyone else. He wanted Alejandro.


"It's like I'm some dirty secret you've kept for three years. And I don't get it."


Ben went through a lot of hurt waiting for Alejandro to get his head out of his ass. It broke my heart because it was obvious how much they loved each other. Every single person in the bar knew. It was impossible to hide with how they looked at one another.

Alejandro's scenes with Preston were some of my favorites. Their friendship really is amazing. I'm still close with my best friend from college and 15 years later and 2 states away we still make sure to visit each other a few times a year. A good, honest friendship is one you never let go of and thank god because Preston definitely came in clutch a few times in this story. In fact, I'd say he was instrumental in helping the beautiful HEA between these two men happen.

We got a few cameos in this one, including a fun scene with Dreamboat. I'm looking forward to his book. And Prestons brother Greyson. I'm also super intrigued about Zane. I want to know more about him. Plus, the name Zane is hot. I wonder if he'll end up with one of the security team. Time will tell!

[Carra · Rating 3 out of 5]

After enjoying Nick and Preston’s story in We Could Do This Forever, my interest was piqued for the bar owner, Alejandro. The beginning of this second story of the duet did a good job of capturing my attention with how Ben and Alejandro initially meet, but did have me wondering exactly how that was going to translate into a full novel.

The answer? A very long, mostly slow burn eventual friends with benefits situation that continues to be drawn out for a large portion of the book. Included in that was some speculative angst regarding Alejandro’s daughter and Ben, which honestly I could have done without (even once a bit of explaining around this occurs near the end).

Ben and Alejandro’s continued clandestine trysts, while hot and sexy, did becoming frustrating primarily because it felt like Alejandro wasn’t understanding Ben’s feelings for him no matter how clear they were to everyone else (including us readers).

While I was glad things do work out in the end, the drawn out frustrations that carried most of the story did wear on my patience. The injection of an outside stressor into the story in the last quarter or so of the book also seemed to have been added as another way to up the drama, but to me it would have felt more natural coming earlier in the story with more buildup along the way.

I did really like Ben and Alejandro as individuals and thought they were great together, so We Could Do This Tonight was a 3.5-star read for me—the stars knocked off mostly because I thought the issues Alejandro had were more drawn out than necessary. I would recommend you read the first book of the duet (We Could Do This Forever) first just to have some background into the supporting characters and the setting as it will enhance your enjoyment of this story.

[read_romance.withgloria Gloria Worlikar · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars

This story is about Ben & Alejandro, I was so excited for their book and it didn't disappoint me. The author has written this story so beautifully, it gave me all the swoony feelings while reading it.

We have met Alejandro in The Package Deal series who owns a famous bar in Portland and has feelings for his bartender Ben but there is a catch Alejandro's daughter also has a crush on Ben and Alejandro is a family man and a martyr so he tries to keep his feelings aside but fails miserably. I was glad that the author decided to share their backstory about how they met and the year of only kisses in secret and then a year of secretly hooking up but throughout that, you could see how perfect they both were for each other and they were meant to be together.

Alejandro and Ben had amazing chemistry which was swoony at times and wonderful to witness. Ben was head over heels in love with Alejandro and would do anything for him, which meant waiting for him to take his head out of his ass so he could pursue this beautiful relationship. Their sexual chemistry was off the charts, even their kisses were so intimate from the first moments that I was all giddy while reading it. There are some twists and turns which take place in the plot that is playing in the background but I was so happy when they got their HEA.

I freaking adored Alejandro and Preston's friendship, also Eliana and Anna were so supportive of Ben and Alejandro's relationship, I loved it so much. Also, the cameos of the characters from The Package Deal World were just what I needed because I miss them and their kids, I loved them.

I highly recommend you to check this book out but also if you have not read The Package Deal series or the first book in this series, I advise you to start there so that you are not lost and enjoy this book to the fullest.

* I received an ARC copy from the author and this is my honest review *

[Showarst · Rating 3 out of 5]

We Could Do This Tonight by Emerson Beckett is book 2 in the We Could Do This duet. I was really looking forward to Ben and Alejandro’s story. Alejandro has been a fixture in the Package Deal universe as the owner/manager of Alejandro’s Bar.

These two have been circling around each other for three years and it was fascinating to see what’s been happening behind the scenes. I adored Ben and really felt how much he cared about Alejandro. Seeing his history and how he made the decision to move to Portland and work for Alejandro was really interesting. There was more to Ben than meets the eye.

I did become so frustrated by Alejandro’s treatment of Ben (hiding their relationship, never being seen in public, not inviting him to his house, etc) because it hurt Ben. Ben was so patient and Alejandro was being a little ridiculous. I was hoping Ben would finally let him go and Alejandro would step up to woo Ben. Don’t even get me started on Anna’s crush and Alejandro’s inability to break Anna’s heart. Was Ben supposed to date her just because Anna liked him? Did he get no choice? She was only 19 and would probably have crushes on many more people before all is said and done.

I still love this world and all the characters. The beginning was great, I just got frustrated by Alejandro.

I received an ARC for my honest review

[Mandee · Rating 4 out of 5]

There were things I loved about this book, like the love and passion between Alejandro and Benjamin. And then there were things that irritated me, like the fact that Ben just hung around for years, while Alejandro hid him, and played with his feelings. Alejandro, more concerned about his business, and his daughter’s crush on Ben, treated Ben more like a booty call than a romantic partner.

Ben, not wanting to lose Alejandro, said he was okay with it. Claimed he was fine with being exclusive f*buddies. They never put labels on what they were to one another, but it was clear both wanted more. As a reader, I just wanted to shake both of them and scream “WTF?!”

After New York, it seemed that they were making forward progress, they actually saw one another’s homes. Alejandro met Ben’s parents. Then, the bar brawl situation happened, and Alejandro lashed out, and I thought, okay finally, Ben will wake up and see that this grown a$$ man doesn’t deserve him. The way Alejandro spoke to him was entirely inappropriate, even if he was under stress. Somehow they managed to work through that though, and Ben was able to forgive the situation.

Despite all of this, the heat between these two was scorching. The love was immense. As frustrating as they were, it was obvious that they had a connection, and maybe that was enough. Alejandro was seeking out therapy at the end of the book, and hopefully that will help him work through some of his ongoing control issues, so that he doesn’t cycle through and repeat history.

[Bkwrm24 · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ben and Alejandro ❤️

4 Stars ⭐️

Ok so first of all I'm going to start by saying that I absolutely adore these characters and all of the surrounding characters from the previous books and yes... I've read them all so far. I promised to be honest with my review so here goes, Alejandro's character was not at all what I expected, he was borderline neurotic with his control issues and not in a fun way, sigh.......I felt let down, for all of the anticipation leading up to Ben and Alejandro's love story I expected to be blown away but Alejandro's actions had me frustrated more often than not throughout this read and for what? non issues imo. Now Ben on the other hand, he was a saint!! He put up with literally 3 years of sh*t in the name of love and he never quit !! I absolutely adored him for it, he was funny, he was selfless, he was snarky and he was just a ray of sunshine for Alejandro, always. All in all I ended up really enjoying this story toward the end when Alejandro finally got his head out of his a** and decided to be the man Ben deserved all along, it was a hard fought HEA but when they got there it was everything. I would recommend this read, it's a great addition to this universe.

* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *

[camms.bookshelf · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ben and Alejandro are some of my favorite MC’s! I loved this book and how this author didn’t make the females out to be hateful or catty. Amazing read!

[Heather MMRomanceReviewed]

Talk about slow burn! Two men who could have been together from the beginning... fighting so hard, especially Alejandro... I love how their friends and family take things into their own hands to bring about a sweet and wonderful HEA.

This isn't a typical romance read, but I appreciate the way the author uses time and space to tell the tale and I love how supportive and amazing the friends and family are for each other. If you like to be just a little frustrated before you watch the characters get their sh*t together, than this is definitely a book for you.

While it can be read standalone, you'll probably enjoy it more if you read Preston's book first.

[Aysha · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 Stars

We Could Do This Tonight is the second book in the series and can be read as a standalone. However, all the books in this ‘Package Deal’ universe are closely related.

I was really excited for this story, I have really enjoyed the other ‘Package Deal’ books. Not to mention the tropes: Boss/ employee, age gap (21 years difference) and slow burn = 🔥🔥.

This book was sectioned into four parts (the parts are not all the same size). The first part is where we see how Alejandro and Ben first meet three years ago.
The next part is where we see them start to work together and then eventually start to kiss in secret…
Another year passes by in the third part and they start to do a bit more than kissing, still in secret.
When we got to present day in part four, I was kind of knocked off guard. While I was invested to know what happened to these two; I didn’t feel like the plot had a sense of direction. At times it distracted me from the book because I was very confused as to where the storyline was going.
The main source of ‘tension’ in this book was Alejandro’s daughter also having a crush on Ben, but it didn’t feel like it was a source of conflict or added any angst to the plot. I do appreciate how this situation was ‘resolved’. l can understand how Alejandro was almost ruminating his worries (in his head making them bigger than they were in real life), which I thought was very realistic.
I really enjoyed the ending and thought it was very sweet.

I liked the characters, but I honestly couldn’t tell you anything about them. I felt like I was just looking into their lives for a brief moment and didn’t actually know them. I liked that Ben was very supportive, although I do wish that he stood up for himself a bit more. I thought it was great that Alejandro showed growth in this book.

I did feel like this lack of connection to the characters also resulted in a lack of feels for me, I honestly didn’t have very many emotions when I was reading this book.
The actual writing style was great - engaging and easy to read. I liked the format of the texts and have never seen them displayed like that before.

Overall, I enjoyed this book but wouldn’t read it again. I can’t wait to read more in this world though!

This book contains sensitive content such as homophobia and therapy.

🤫 Secret relationship
🌷21 year age gap
🚫 ‘Forbidden’ love - Boss/ Employee
✨ Single dad
😍 Always been you/ Love at first sight
☀️ Sunshine MC
❤️‍🔥 Slow burn MM romance

Plot: 📚📚📚
Character rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Sexiness: 🔥🔥🔥
Feels: 🖤🖤🖤
Writing style: 🖊🖊🖊🖊🖊

[WycEd Reader · Rating 5 out of 5]

Check out our full post for WE COULD DO THIS TONIGHT on Wicked Reads, which includes an excerpt.

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Shannan – ☆☆☆☆☆
WE COULD DO THIS TONIGHT is the second book in the duet, We Could Do This. It shouldn't be read as a standalone but if you do so you should still be able to read it without issue. BUT you shouldn't because you need Nick and Preston's story.

Ben wanted a change; he was tired of the same things in California. When he and his best friend make the trip to Seattle to see if this is where Ben wants to live, he instantly knows he can't leave. Seeing the sexy owner of the bar, he knows he is where is meant to be. But Ben never thought he'd have to work at the bar for three years before Alejandro finally let his guard down enough to let Ben in.

Alejandro knew instantly he wanted the new guy who came into the bar. What he didn't expect was for him to be one of the new bartenders. He had strict rules about dating staff and intended on keeping those rules – and for three years it worked, until he just couldn't fight it any longer. Ben was everything he wanted but he wouldn't let himself have it. Somewhere along the way, Alejandro's daughter develops a crush on Ben, which puts him in an even more awkward position. Does he crush his daughter’s heart or Ben's?

First, I loved getting a little more of the Package Deal world. Finally getting Ben and Alejandro's story! The tension and chemistry for these two has been through many books. At times, I so wanted to kick Alejandro in the butt for the things he was doing and/or not doing. Ben was giving so much of himself to Alejandro, that most people who weren't getting a response or were being treated the way Ben was would have left. I'm so happy they finally got their much deserved happily ever after!


Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the second book in this series, but if you have read THE ROCKSTAR, or any of the Package Deal series, then you will know the bar and protagonists in this story already!

Ben and his BFF walk into a bar in Portland... and he sees Alejandro, the owner,... and falls for him, boom!

As Alejandro is twice Ben's age, he dismisses all possibilities of anything happening, and the guy is a tourist, so even less reason to engage. But Ben is persistent and decides he will apply for a job at the bar, move his life from San Diego to Portland, and wait Alejandro out.

One has to give kudos to Ben that he really does wait and wait and wait – because Alejandro has got all up in his head about the whole possibility of them being together. I enjoyed the banter between Alejandro and his best friend, Preston, and the relationship he maintained with his ex-wife. They softened off his attitude and explained why he was being quite so stubborn!

A very enjoyable read, and fun to read both sides of a story which was inevitable from day one, but took years to reach fruition.

Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

[myqueerbookshelves]

«ARC REVIEW»

We Could Do This Tonight by Emerson Beckett

This is book 2 in the We Could Do This duet which is a spin-off from The Package Deal Series.

« boss x employee »
« age gap»
« slow burn »
« single dad »
« love at first sight »
« secret romance »
« love triangle »
« “it’s always been you” »
« HEA »

I couldn’t wait to get my hands on Alejandro and Ben’s story, which did not disappoint!

Urgh these two. First, our sweet Ben. Ben is just too precious for this world! He is a goddamn SAINT and his perseverance is admirable. He went through a lot of hurt over three years waiting for Alejandro to get his shit together, but he also knew he wanted Alejandro and no one else. I am sure I am not the only one who wanted to give that man a shake! Alejandro is a bit of a martyr and puts everyone’s happiness above him. I think Alejandro had good intensions, but it still resulted in him not only hurting himself, but Ben too. Alejandro definitely has his issues and hang ups. Alejandro is a perfectionist and did not have work life balance. I love how Emerson continues to normalize mental health, therapy, and working on ourselves. With the help of therapy, Alejandro grows and learns to let go some of his responsibilities and that he does not need to be perfect in order to deserve love.

I liked the dichotomy of Alejandro and Ben’s relationship and personalities and how they did not align in the way you would assume. Ben, who is much younger, seemed more of the level-headed one of the two. He took care of Alejandro and was patient and understanding. It seemed like Alejandro still had a lot of growing up to do, which we see him do throughout the story.

These two give us all the swoony vibes! Their chemistry, sexual attraction, and the love they have for each other is undeniable. They are like to magnets that can’t help but gravitate towards each other. Everyone in the bar knew how they felt for each other, just from seeing the way they look at the other.

No one does found family like Emerson. I think that is why her stories feel so special but also feels like coming home. I loved Alejandro’s and Preston’s friendship in book 1 and I loved them even more in this book. Their scenes were some of my favorites. They tease each other mercilessly, call each other assholes, but there is no questioning how much they love and support each other. I couldn’t help but crack up laughing at their antics.

This book can be read as a standalone, but I recommend reading the package deal series first to get the full experience.


[I received an ARC of this book from the author and this is my honest review]

[Romantic Reads and Such · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved Ben. He’s sweet, funny, happy, and, luckily for Alejandro, forgiving & patient. Even knowing that they are meant to be together, it takes a LONG time to get there and the progression in their relationship is slow going. (I’m not sure I could have been as tolerant as Ben was so I’m glad Beckett had us jumping thru time in the early parts of the books to show how things developed.)

Alejandro is drawn to Ben but he feels like there’s quite a bit standing in their way – their age difference, the fact that they are employer/employee, and his daughter’s crush on Ben. While they find ways to work through the first couple, that last one is really hurting Alejandro (and giving readers some fits based on other reviews). He feels like it would be wrong to hurt her, after all as her father it’s his job to protect her, but he’s getting outside advice telling him to just tell her. (And we as readers know he should just tell her. She’s like 19 years old and it’s just a crush. Plus, Ben has never suggested the feelings could be reciprocated and I’m pretty sure he has a say in this matter too.) Eventually things come to a head, thanks to a little push from outside parties, and we’re good for that HEA they deserve.

Or maybe not! I looked down at this point and realized I was only about halfway thru the book and thought how much more can she put them thru! :) Just a little more apparently and of course it all worked out in the end. Although I did wonder about Alejandro a few more times – the man had some seriously wrong reactions to situations. Luckily Ben is willing to wait for him to figure things out, which of course he does and comes out all the better for it, but it is a frustrating and sometimes eye-rolling journey to get there. So, who’s ready for a bit of a roller coaster read?

**I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.**

[S.M. Harshell · Rating 5 out of 5]

WE COULD DO THIS TONIGHT is the second book in the duet We Could Do This. It shouldn't be read as a stand alone but if you do so you should still be able to read it without issue. BUT you shouldn't because you need Nick and Preston's story.

Ben wanted a change he was tired of the same things in California when he and his best friend make the trip to Seattle to see if this is where Ben wants to live he instantly knows he can't leave. Seeing the sexy owner of the bar he knows he is where is meant to be. But Ben never thought he'd have to work at the bar for three years before Alejandro finally lets his guard down enough to let Ben in.

Alejandro knew instantly he wanted the new guy that came into the bar. What he didn't expect was for him to be one of the new bartenders. He had strict rules about dating staff and intended on keeping those rules and for three years it worked until he just couldn't fight it any longer. Ben was everything he wanted but he wouldn't let himself have it. Somewhere along the way Alejandro's daughter develops a crush on Ben which puts him in an more awkward position. Does he crush his daughters heart or Ben's?

First I loved getting a little more of the Package Deal world. Finally getting Ben and Alejandro's story! The tension and chemistry for these two has been through many books. At times I so wanted to kick Alejandro in the butt for the things he was doing and/or not doing. Ben was giving so much of himself to Alejandro that most people that weren't getting a response or were being treated the way Ben was would have left. I'm so happy they finally got their much deserved HEA!

I was given a free copy of this book.

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is Ben and Alejandro’s story, also with a lot of Nick and Preston from We Can Do This Forever. The four characters are interwoven in the two books, even though Ben and Alejandro are the stars this time. Ben fell in love with Alejandro the first time he saw him when he entered the bar Alejandro owned in Portland. Ben had been feeling restless, was debating where to consider moving to change up his life, and Portland called to him for some unknown reason. That night, he knew why. It took Ben three years to get what he wanted, almost fighting Alejandro the whole way, even though Alejandro felt the same. The flirtatious dance between the two was very slow to develop with longing looks, stolen kisses, infrequent touches, and a lot of guilt and angst on Alejandro’s part, but Ben never gave up and gradually wore him down. Age, family, and the employee/employer situation were problems that Alejandro had to face and accept to be able to claim Ben as his own.

Complicated and interesting characters who were meant to be together if they could just communicate and get out of their heads. Recurring characters from previous books and great world building for the bar and its returning patrons all added to the richness of this love story as it unfolded. I was almost ready to quit reading when Ben and Alejandro were back from NYC — was thinking I can’t go through another angsty “what is it about men that they can’t communicate”, but was pleasantly surprised there was a different twist, so glad I persevered. An interested, though convoluted read with lots of backstory.

I received an ARC of this book and this is my voluntary review.

[Janet · Rating 3 out of 5]

Was so looking forward to this

I loved the obvious attraction between Ben and Alejandro in the first book of the duet, We Could Do This Forever, and was more interested in them than Nick and Preston, so I had high hopes for their story.
Ben was an absolute sweetheart, full of natural charm and sunshine, and I wanted all good things for him. All he wanted was the man who claimed his heart at first glance. Unfortunately, Alejandro acted more like an immature teenager and Ben was mature and wise beyond his years.
The way Alejandro treated Ben made me so angry. First just sidelong glances, then covert kisses, then even more covert sex (all just skimmed over in the narrative), whilst pretending that it meant nothing and adamant no one could know. He kept Ben at arm's length and it was beyond annoying. Ben didn't deserve any of that and I wanted his patience to run out and for him to find a man who truly wanted him and would be proud to have Ben by his side at all times, and definitely in public.
The thing with Anna was just too ridiculous for words and the blurb is misleading. The only love triangle was in Alejandro's head.
Funnily enough, after the first book, I liked Nick and Preston as a couple more this time around, and seeing Preston give Alejandro the same sort of support (haha!) he himself received from his best friend in his own book was satisfying.
Five stars for Ben, four for Nick and Preston, one star for Alejandro.

[Dinoh (Akari) · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was long awaited! Especially for those of us who have been following The Package Deal series, and especially, We Could Do This Forever, the previous book in this duet.

Maybe there are some SPOILERS so read with caution if you don't want to get the story ruined.
.
.

We Could Do It Tonight is the story of Ben and Alejandro. They met 3 years ago, when Ben entered Alejandro's bar for the first time, and the attraction was mutual, immediate and deep. Ben started working there, just to be close to Alejandro and little by little, they began a secret relationship (at a snail's pace...), first, because Alejandro was worried about how it would affect the reputation of his bar if it was known that he was dating an employee, and second, because his daughter, Ana, had a crush on Ben too and wanted to go out with him at all costs, although Ben never gave her any sign that the attraction was mutual. No, during those years he only had eyes for Alejandro.

I have to say, I didn't think another MC written by this author was going to make me as angry as Marcus in Pass Interference (a previous book in the Package Deal series), oh boy, but I was wrong! And here are the reasons why, once again, I gave only 3 stars to a book by this author, no matter how much it hurt me (and it really, really hurt me when I have to rate a book with less than 4 stars). But, OMFG Alejandro did make me angry in their story! I was waiting for a mature man, who knew what he wanted, after all, he had all the experience of his years, he was a hard worker who had a successful bar, a failed marriage behind him, a daughter... etc. , but it turns out that if one of them was really mature, it was Ben, who was really young, but incredibly smart and happy and easygoing, and who did know what he wanted for himself.

Now, I'm not saying that Alejandro couldn't have doubts, every person can struggle to take some decisions, and I can understand his need to protect his daughter, but spending three years going around and hurting once and again the man he supposedly loved, sacrificing their relationship without trying to find a solution? That doesn't seem credible to me in an adult man, who everyone said was a great guy, a great friend, a great employer, etc., etc. And what was it that Alejandro expected Ben to do with Ana? Date her just because she was attracted to him? In other words, Alejandro not only sacrificed his relationship with Ben, but he also expected Ben to sacrifice his life just to make someone happy for whom he had no feelings? And to end my complaints, the other thing that bothered me is that Ben eventually went out with Ana, only for us to later find out that he did it to clear the air and tell her his truth. But... How was his talk with her? How did she react? How was it that in the end she knew what Alejandro felt and she was supposedly trying to help him get his head out of his ass? I WANTED TO READ THAT SCENE. Because all the book was about to protect Ana and her feelings and when finally happened we got...NOTHING? Oh and without mentioning the relationship with the ex, Ana's mother. I am in favor of divorced people maintaining a good relationship, especially with children involved... But come on, spending holidays together? Hugging, getting cozy etc., at parties or events, IN FRONT OF THE MAN YOU LOVE and with whom you are in a relationship? I mean, I would try to spend every minute I can with the person I love on special dates or events or parties, NOT WITH MY EX!

Anyway, I can't say that the story in general is bad. At the end of the day it is entertaining, with a lot of banter, some romantic scenes but not as hot or steamy as other books by this author, after all, even those moments were secret even in the pages of the books... In short, the story is good, but it could have been sooo much better.

I was given an advanced copy and voluntarily wrote a review.

[Canadian Girl Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝙄 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙨𝙩𝙖𝙣𝙙𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙞𝙣 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙣𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙖𝙜𝙣𝙚𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙖𝙩 𝙝𝙖𝙙 𝙙𝙧𝙖𝙬𝙣 𝙢𝙮 𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙞𝙤𝙣 𝙛𝙧𝙤𝙢 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙢𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩 𝙄 𝙨𝙖𝙬 𝙝𝙞𝙢.

We Could Do This Tonight ~ Emerson Beckett
We Could Do This 2
Alejandro ~ Benjamin

🍁🍁🍁🍁

Alejandro and Ben have been a tease throughout the Packaged Deal series and we finally get their story.

Alejandro and Ben take to each other like metal to a magnet but due to their age gap and the fact that Ben is now an employee, Alejandro is determined to push Ben away.

Alejandro and Ben had me intrigued to dive into their story and it was ok. I loved that we got their back story and their full journey to their HEA. Ben was an absolute saint for waiting and putting up with Alejandro and his stubbornness. I did love their private times together where they could be themselves without the outside world interfering.

I still love this world and everyone involved and can not wait for what is to come in the future.

Get ready for...

🏳️‍🌈 MM
❤️ Age Gap
🖤 Workplace
❤️ Single Dad
🖤 Secret Relationship

🎙️ First-Person, Dual

⚠️ Be mindful that some content may be uncomfortable for readers!

❤️🖤

*A copy of this book was kindly provided to Canadian Girl Reads*

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[Traci S · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5⭐️
I always enjoy the characters in this author’s books and I was interested in getting Alejandro story as he’s been such a fixture in the Package Deal series. I loved the strong friendships in that series and here one of my favorite parts of the story are also the strong friendships. Preston and Alejandro are genuinely dedicated to each despite the way they love to push buttons. Ben’s bestie Mariella is so supportive of him and his decision to shake up his life and move to Portland. I liked this couple and they do have some epic chemistry. Ben, in particular is lovely. He is an absolute sweetheart of a person and wise beyond his years. For me, Alejandro’s didn’t really deserve Ben - at least until pretty late in the game. He spends years pulling Ben close, then pushing him away. Alejandro’s reasons for this are not really believable and made the book brag a bit. I liked the premise as described, it had potential for some fun drama but that’s not what this book is about. I really loved Anna’s character, she was smart and supportive. But, she is just another of Alejandro’s excuses. It is fun spending time in this world. I did appreciate the excellent female characters, the world building is well done, and has an absolutely lovely ending.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Ruthie Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~

This is the second book in this series, but if you have read The Rockstar, or any of the Package Deal series, then you will know the bar and protagonists in this story already!

Ben and his bff walk into a bar in Portland ... and he sees Alejandro, the owner ... and falls for him, boom!

As Alejandro is twice Ben's age, he dismisses all possibilities of anything happening, and the guy is a tourist so even less reason to engage. But Ben is persistent and decides he will apply for a job at the bar, move his life from San Diego to Portland and wait Alejandro out.

One has to give kudos to Ben that he really does wait and wait, and wait - because Alejandro has got all up in his head about the whole possibility of them being together. I enjoyed the banter between Alejandro and his best friend Preston, and the relationship he maintained with his ex-wife. They softened off his attitude and explained why he was being quite so stubborn!

A very enjoyable read and fun to read both sides of a story which was inevitable from day one, but took years to reach fruition.

[Jennifer O'Malley · Rating 3 out of 5]

Just as with the first book, the time jumps were not my favorite. At least I knew to expect it with this book. But that also almost made it harder to get into the beginning, despite the fact I was looking forward to reading their story.

In some ways, this book was even more confusing with the beginning and time jumps. It went through three “parts”, equaling 70 pages, before it got to Chapter One… that’s 24% of the book. So I’m not really sure what to think of that.

What I had initially thought about Ben and Anna was true, and then some.

But the pacing seemed a bit off. I think it had to do with the first 24% effectively being a prologue and then it seemed like a lot of the plot was wrapped up by the 60% mark. Some things felt rushed and just briefly mentioned while other things (sometimes, IMO, the wrong things) were drawn out on the page.

At this point, I’d completely forgotten about how the bar was supposed to have problems. And I wasn’t a fan of how that all ended/who it was. And I really didn’t like the way Ben handled it when it all came to a head, seemed out of character for him.

In the end it was cute but too many things bothered me and pulled me out of the story.

[Babara-Anne · Rating 5 out of 5]

AGE GAP SUNSHINE EMPLOYEE/GRUMPY BOSS! LOVE STORY!

In We Could Do This Forever we caught a glimpse of the chemistry, flirty banter between Alejandro Sanchez- owner of Alejandro’s and his bartender Benjamin Williams… dark horse extraordinaire…. now we get their much awaited story…

For three years they danced around each other until one new years night and then Halloween night but Benjamin can only stay a secret up to a point and this is where he reaches it….

“That’s the moment I knew I was in love with him. I’d give him any part of me he wanted. I just hoped he didn’t break my heart.”

New York- Preston and Nick’s wedding was the catalyst that caused Ben’s first heartbreak…

A bad review for Alejandro’s causes Ben’s second heartbreak…

How many times can Ben accept Alejandro’s behaviour towards him and be placed in second place?…

This was such a sweet, poignant sometimes funny and sometimes sad journey that these two amazing characters had to endure to find their true happiness with the help of their friends and found family!

A beautiful epilogue that will bring tears to the eyes so have the tissues ready!

I voluntarily received an ARC from GRR for an honest non biased review.

[ButtonsMom2003 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading this a lot.

While this is the second book in a duet, I believe it can be read and enjoyed as a standalone story. It does feature characters from book one, We Could Do This Forever it also features characters from The Package Deal series and reading these might enhance your enjoyment of the story.

I liked this book better than the first in the duet. I'm not sure why but I didn't feel like the sexy time was as over done in this one. I like how the book was divided into sections and gave us all of the back-story that we needed on Alejandro and Ben.

I think it was wrong of Alejandro to string Ben along for as many years as he did but that was integral to the story so while it frustrated me, I understand why the book was written that way. Some might say that Ben was kind of stupid for hanging around waiting for Alejandro but I kind of admired his tenacity and how strongly he felt about loving Alejandro.

So, overall I enjoyed reading this book very much and I'm looking forward to reading more from this author and her writing partner, Rheland Richmond.

A copy of this book was provided to me at my request and my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.

[Mandy (MP Book Reviews) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Three years ago, Ben walked into Alejandro's Portland bar and stole his heart with one look. It didn't matter that he's 21 years older than him. All he wants is Alejandro. Benjamin’s beautiful smile and endless charm attract everyone he meets, including my 20-year-old daughter, Anna. No one knows about all the things they have done together. He's made sure to keep it from her. When someone attacks the bar via social media, it’s all he can take. So, which does he choose? Anna’s happiness? Or a life with Ben? Ben knew he loved Alejandro Sanchez the moment our eyes met across the bar. There was something about the single dad and bar owner that I couldn’t get enough of. After three long years, he’s finally okay with us. But when he refuses to tell Anna about us, Ben takes matters into his own hands. He’ll do whatever needs to be done to keep him in his life, even if it means accepting a date with Anna.

This was a good story but I did become annoyed with Alejandro's pathetic behaviour around making a public an full commitment to Ben. Ben was a saint to wait that long. I did love the rose conversations with Preston which made me laugh. Easy to read, feel and understand. This was an MM story with mature content.

[Heather Duff · Rating 5 out of 5]

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4.5 Stars

The DRAMA!! So much drama, but it was great. And there isn’t a person in the book you don’t want to yell at to use their words already!

Alejandro is a fantastic guy and, a great boss, but he’s also a people-pleasing martyr. The older man has worked hard to have one of the best bars in the city. He loves his daughter fiercely, and he enjoys being friends with his ex-wife. Those are all things within his control.

What he doesn't have control over is his feelings for Ben. From the moment he walked into the bar, it only got worse after Ben started working for him.

And Ben is a sweetheart, with the patience of a man in love! It may seem crazy to hang on for as long as he did, but when you know it’s right…

This is a slow burn with a lot of ups and downs as Alejandro tries to get past his own damn self. You’ll be glued to the pages to see what happens next.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow, "We Could Do This Tonight" deserves all the stars and more! I'm seriously blown away by how incredible it is.

Alejandro Sanchez didn’t know what hit him when he first saw Ben in his bar.

The feelings were mutual growing in force each time they saw each other which was nearly every day.
Ben saw Alejandro saw him, he wanted him to know he was the one and would wait till Alejandro became less cautious—

Alejandro couldn't stop thinking of Ben, what he wanted was Ben all the time but life and family got to his mind blocking him from committing to what he so desperately wanted.

How their friends got together to make the magic happen is the icing on the cake!

I found this a beautiful solid story that had me hooked from the first page, the characters are extremely well-rounded and developed so very naturally.

I could not put this magnificent book down, I felt like the words wrapped me into a warm hug which I was happy to stay like a cocoon.

Age gap.
Found family.
Terrific banter.
Slow burn.

The support of their friends and their families was 100% perfect.
There were times I laughed out loud.
I can not recommend this book enough, it's brilliant.

[HarriReadsRoMMance · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 stars for me

This had the option to get kinda angsty considering Alejandro’s daughter also had feelings for Ben (which has been mentioned in other books if you’ve been reading along) but I was happy it didn’t.

I liked that Ben, just like Nick, seemed to be the more mature one in a lot of things and that Alejandro wasn’t condescending to him just because he was older. I also really like how Alejandro and his ex-wife have a really good, healthy relationship based on mutual respect and friendship. Too often the ex-wife is portrayed as a harpy and I like how she’s a strong but very loving and kind woman. Alejandro very much has a martyr personality to his detriment hurting Nick in the process.

This was a really nice enjoyable story once Alejandro got out of his own way and allowed himself to be happy and they really were a good partnership, Ben supporting Alejandro even when he doesn’t realise it. This duo set at Alejandro’s Bar was really great. Emerson Beckett has definitely become a one-click author for me.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.

[Tina · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been waiting for Ben and Alejandro's book since after reading book 1 in the duet. The subtle hints in book 1 about Ben and Alejandro's interest in one another was enough to want to know more... and more is what we got in Book 2.

This book explained the back story of when they met and what happened from the start to present day. Ben is the confident, goal reaching type, while Alejandro is the hesitant, selfless type. When Alejandro gets an inkling that his daughter is interested in Ben, he does his best to not let his feelings for Ben get the best of him. The problem is, his feelings had been there from the moment he met Ben, and they were only growing stronger everyday.

You go through a rollercoaster of emotions: happiness, sadness, frustration and wonder through revelations. This book was a wonderful ending for all the characters in the duet. I hope to get updates in future books by this author.

I received an ARC copy of this book from GRR and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[RomanceLand65 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a new to me author. And truthfully at first I was very confused. Hint I should have read the previous books. But after getting over the hump it all flowed wonderfully. I very much enjoyed the characters and I could totally see Benjamin in my head. The quintessential boy next door everyone loved. And boy did you love him. He was patient waiting three years for his love to wake up and see what's before him. Both characters were very likeable and very well written. I found that the spice was very slow to start but it led to the build up of chemistry between the two characters. The heat was turned on in the last quarter of the book. But said heat really made the story better and worth the wait. I would totally recommend this book to simple romance lovers like myself. The people who enjoy the romance of a book without the angst and abundance of smut. Thank you to this wonderful author who still writes a classic romance.

[C.B. · Rating 5 out of 5]

Keeping secrets in a bar, yep! Alejandro is a bar owner and single Dad to 20 year old, Anna. Alejandro, spent the past 20 years putting his family first and living life by the rules to protect his family and grow his bar. Ben is a charming, engaging handsome man who charms everyone he meets. One night, Ben walks into the Bar, locks eyes with Alejandro and instant lust/love. Alejandro, secretly while loving Ben intensely for 3 years while fighting his employer/employee rules. Ben, dotes on Alejandro. Anna, has feelings for Ben. This is a great character study in loyalty, love, commitment and owning one's truth. All are good people. All want love and happiness. All may not necessarily get what they want. It was hard reading about Alejandro's indecision and how he kept Ben on tenderhooks. I wanted to have 'words' with him on several occasions. Good story, paced to keep the reader hooked. It works! Totally hot cover art! Nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Cindy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ben met a bar owner Alejandro and he decided to move to Portland and work for him because of their chemistry. For three years they flirt, kiss and have sex but Alejandro won't commit. I loved Ben with his youthful enthusiasm, confidence and patience but Alejandro was cowardly and deserved to lose Ben. This was a hard one for me even though it was super steamy and Ben was awesome. Alejandro disappointed me with his constant waffling and needing his friends to push him to do anything so it was hard to like him until the end. I still enjoy Emerson's writing and this overall series, she writes real people, I guess, and loved the end. I received a copy of this book through Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest opinion.