The fact that it also meant seeing Tiffany again was not a factor.
It wasn’t.
When they arrived, I had to bite back a laugh.Tiffany had her hair in a rather complicated top bun braid style that completely exposed her neck, as well as the dark mark I’d left on her from last night.
Of course.
Any concerns I’d had that she might regret last night were obliterated, and honestly, I should have known better than to even contemplate it.This was Tiffany Young, resident firecracker, heavyweight bickering champion.She hadn’t done anything less than completely project herself in every interaction we’d had, so why should this be any different.
Devon handled the news well, and I was extremely pleased when he said he had no plans to go anywhere.Thank god.He might not have the same flair as Tiffany, but he was an incredibly hard worker.I held him back, ignoring Tiffany’s sly wink as she left the office to start bar prep.
While Devon and I spoke, the sound system came to life beyond the door.It was always clearer to hear in the hour before opening when the bar was empty.As the lyrics filtered through, I made out the words, “Take me from behind” and “Make the glasses shake.”I was glad that I was out of view, heat rippling through my body.No chance of Tiffany being subtle about this, then.
I refocused on the conversation at hand.“If you’re interested in a promotion, now is the time to let me know.”
“While I appreciate the offer, Mr.Cooper, mixing isn’t something I’m planning on pursuing.”
His phrasing interested me.“How about the bar manager position?”
“Isn’t that something you’re currently doing?”
“It is.But it was never going to be a long-term arrangement, and I’d like to focus more on the refurbishment and expansion.”Among other things.“You’re more than capable, and from what I’ve witnessed, already doing the work.If you want it, it’s yours.”
“I’d like the think it over.”
“Of course.”
“I also know someone perfect for the bar, too.”
“Oh?”
“Yeah, my sister Jade.She’s maybe not gotten as many awards as Tiffany—”
“Few have.”
“But she’s incredible.Has a real mind for flavors and combinations, and she can mix anything you ask her to.”
“And you’re not a little biased?”
“I am.But that doesn’t mean what I’ve said isn’t true.”
“Ok.Have her send me her resume, and I’ll take a look.”
“Thanks, boss.”
After closing,I made a concerted effort not to be in a rush for everyone to leave.I wasn’t so much hiding in my office.I was reviewing paperwork.I was handling important business things.
I re-read the same paragraph four times before I gave up.
The office door closed with a click.The bar was quiet beyond it, and from the way Tiffany very openly leered at me, I assumed everyone had finally gone home.
“We should probably talk first.”
“Really?That’s what you want to do right now?”
My expression still, I raised an eyebrow, daring her to disagree.
“Fine.You might be.”She trailed the last word into a mumble.
