She lets out an audible breath. “That was part of the reason.”
I tilt my head to the side. “What’s the other reason?”
Her eyes lift to the ceiling as if searching for the answer.
She meets my gaze. “Is it okay if we don’t talk about it?”
“Is it because vendors were coming after you?”
She shakes her head. “No. It has nothing to do with the business I had with Ellen and Qi… It’s…” She squirms in her seat. “I’d need half a dozen drinks to get into it.”
“That can be arranged. After all, it’s eight-thirty at night, so…”
“I can’t believe it’s that late.”
“That’s what happens when you spend too much time in dreamland.”
She gives me a look.
I veer the conversation back to the topic at hand. “You had millions of people following you on your socials?—”
“Had, being the operative word.”
“Don’t diminish your accomplishments, Harley.”
She flinches.
“You were so proficient at what you did, With A Flourish Floral Design was featured on several top 25 Best Flower Instagram account lists. That’s nothing to sneeze at.”
“Kaz”—she rubs her face with both hands—“that’s a lifetime ago.”
“Because I’m no longer a professional hockey player, doesn’t mean I’ve forgotten how to skate or score a goal.”
“That’s different. What you did requires skill.” She averts her gaze.
Oh no, sweetheart, I’m not going to allow you to put yourself down in my presence.“Look at me.”
I’m still staring at the side of her head.
“Harley.”
My harsh tone compels her to comply.
Big green, doe eyes fix onto me.
“That’s a bullshit answer, and you know it.”
She responds with a one shoulder shrug.
“I have an in-house social media manager slash public relations liaison position open.” I just pulled that one out of my ass. “I’d like to offer you the position.”
Chapter 12
Incessant Gossip
Harley
My brain misfires.
