I slide one of the drinks to her, my eyes twinkling. “Is that all I am?”
It’s too easy to forget who we are, even though we’re still discussing work. This isn’t the workplace. Evie’s hair isn’t in a tight bun anymore, and we’re exchanging drinks rather than talking about my ever-changing schedule.
“No. You’re much more than that.” She lifts the glass to her lips, her eyes never leaving mine. “You’re a good bartender, too.”
“That’s what I thought.”
“Evie?” Everett’s voice booms through the house. “Did you take my blow dryer again?”
“Sorry!” She giggles and rushes up the staircase. She turns back to me, giving me another moment of her time. “Really, this is a good Bloody Mary. I’m impressed! I would tip you, but…”
“No tips necessary.”
The illusion shatters once she’s gone. She’s still my employee, and I’m still her boss. I shouldn’t watch her skirt twirl around her legs when she turns, and I definitely shouldn’t think about the sweet smile she only gives me when she’s off the clock…
I add an extra shot of vodka to my drink.
The party goes on as usual. Evie is here; that’s the only difference, and this time, she doesn’t stand off to the sidelines. She talks to others—a few of her brother’s friends and their partners.
I’m the one alone now, until Everett approaches me.
“We have a problem,” he mutters.
What problem could we possibly have? The sun is out, and everyone is having a great time. They’re drinking, chatting, and eating. For once, Everett didn’t burn the food.
He’s probably sending me on an ice run. I hold back a groan, and my brows furrow. “What is it?”
“Joy is here.”
“Joy…?”
He glares, his hands on his hips. “Don’t tell me you already forgot her name. Come on, man. You’re so fucking embarrassing.”
Oh, right. That Joy. The date that failed before it began. Ihaveforgotten her, which makes me a prick, but in my defense, I’ve been busy training an employee and planning a trip. My excuses for canceling our date were true.
I scoff. “Of course, I didn’t forget.”
But I couldn’t tell him a single thing about her.
“Theo!” I hardly know her voice, but when someone approaches from behind, I know it’s Joy.
Dammit.
I greet her with a big smile. “Joy!”
If it weren’t for Everett, I wouldn’t remember her name.
She leans in, quickly kissing my cheek, and I shift uncomfortably. Am I supposed to kiss her back?
“I’ve been waiting to hear from you,” she says. “Everett told me you’ve been busy with work.”
“He didn’t lie; I have been.” I press my lips into a thin, apologetic smile.
“Things are finally slowing down now.” Everett lifts a brow. He’s enjoying this, isn’t he? “Right?”
“A little bit…” Thank God, I have another out. “I’ll be traveling next week for work, but after that, I should get back to my usual schedule.” I shoot Everett a glare, and thankfully, he drifts in another direction.
Joy steps closer. “Does that mean I’ll hear from you once you return? I am still looking forward to spending some time with you… in private.”
