“Duly noted. Thank you, Ever.”
“For what?”
“For taking me as I am.”
If I weren’t dressed and made up for work, I’d fall backward onto my bed with a smile on my face and my phone clasped to my chest.
“Do you sleep at the club often?” I carry the phone with me to the kitchen.
“I don’t make a habit of it.”
Good. It must be uncomfortable sleeping in an office chair in an office that isn’t his own.
“Can I ask a personal question?”
With my cell resting against my backpack on the kitchen table, I make myself a bowl of cereal and sit.
“Shoot.”
“Was I dreaming when I said yes to being your girl?”
“We shared the same dream, so yeah, sweetness, I’m thinking we’re an item.”
Dream. Sweetness. An item. The words string together and touch me where it matters—my heart.
“Ask your questions, Ever.”
“No questions.”
“Your face gives you away, Ever After. Now, ask.”
My body springs to attention while my mind is befuddled by how easily I give in to Bobby’s commanding tone.
“When will you be back?” I spoon cereal into my mouth.
“Friday. Meetings during the day, parties at night.”
“Does that include pleasure?”
“Jealous?” He smiles like he’s enjoying the idea.
“Curious.”
“Curiosity killed the cat.”
“This cat has nine lives.” I point my spoon at my chest.
He chuckles. “Duly noted.” He undoes a button on his shirt, giving me a hint of more chest hair and ink. “No pleasure but a chance to network in a social setting. People loosen up when drinks are flowing.”
“You included?”
“Some but not the hardcore stuff, not when money is at stake.”
“But you’ll let the others drink until they loosen up enough for you to take advantage?”
“Not my problem that they can’t hold their liquor or that they let themselves get into a situation of getting taken advantage of.”
“That’s ruthless and . . .” I wanted to say “immoral,” but I can’t deny he makes some good points. Plus, who am I to judge? I don’t run a business and have no desire to. “Kind of scary.”
