“Hello!” Kaylee places the four-cup coffee holder on her desk and waves. “No need to stop on my account.” Grinning, she pulls first one coffee, then another from the holders. “Wish I’d known you were here, Lucas. I’d have gotten you one.” She sits down at her desk and busies herself with who knows what.
He chuckles. “I think I’ll let you ladies get back to work.” He leans in close. “I’ll pick you up for the gala on Saturday night. And I’ll text you the time,friend.” He stands tall and grins, then strides past Kaylee’s desk. “Bye, Kaylee.”
She treats him to another finger wave. “Bye, Lucas.”
I shake my head and walk back around to my desk chair and sit down.
“What was he doing here?” she asks me.
I blink and realize I don’t know. I’d just been having a mini meltdown, looked up, and there he was. “He was… in the neighborhood,” I tell her.
Across from me, Kaylee grins and busies herself with work on her desk.
My phone rings.
I see it’s Jack and groan but swipe to take the call and put the cell to my ear. “Hi, Jack. What’s up? Aren’t you in Nashville?” I ask.
“And that means I can’t call and say hi to my sister?” he asks.
I roll my eyes, knowing in Jack-speak that probably means checking up on me. “Of course not. How are you?” I open my laptop and make some notes regarding the banners and places I think can get me the items in time.
“I’m good. Scoping out places, meeting new people,” he says.
“Anyone special?” I can’t help but ask. My brother is more of a relationship type of guy, but he’s never foundthe one, so my asking isn’t about ribbing him, it’s a serious question. I want him to be happy. If he hasn’t found anyone here, maybe there’s someone at one of the places he visits.
“I don’t have time for romance. I’m here to work,” he says in a gruff voice.
“That’s not the Jack I know and love. Promise me you’ll keep an eye open?”
“Sure. How are things going there? Is Lucas taking good care of you?” he asks.
If only he knows just how good. Uncomfortable with the thought, I shift in my seat. “Lucas has been great. I’ve had some unfortunate snags with the orders for the anniversary party and he’s been a rock.”
“I know he had his issues growing up, but he’s a great guy and solid partner. I’m glad he’s being a good friend for you too.” I hear Jack’s name being called. “Rainey, I have to run. I’ll see you when I get home. Good luck with everything.”
“Thanks! Bye.” I disconnect the call and sigh.
Just what I needed from my brother. A reminder that Lucas shouldn’t be anything to me but a good friend when I think of him as so much more.
CHAPTER FOURTEEN
Lucas
Idrive backto the club. It’s drizzling so I turn on my wipers, but not even the rain can ruin my mood. Despite the friendship agreement I made with Rainey, we’re good for each other. I know it, and so does she.
As I pull into my parking spot, I notice a bulky man with long hair, his hands in his jeans pockets, wearing a T-shirt, loitering at the entrance. There’s something familiar about him but as I exit my vehicle and walk his way, I don’t recognize the black tattoo sleeves on his arms, and I’m sure I’m mistaken. I’ve never met him before.
I tap my key fob and lock the door, then approach him. “Excuse me. Can I help you?”
He turns and I stop short. “Trick?” My stomach twists with memories best forgotten.
His familiar gray eyes meet mine. “Here he is. Mr. I’ve Moved Up in the World.” He extends his arm and steps forward.
Next thing I know, he pulls me in for a brotherly hug and slaps me on the back. I work out. I’m solid, but he’s pure muscle, no doubt from lack of anything else to do but exercise.
I return the gesture with a slap of my own, wondering if he’s being genuine or setting me up in some way.
He backs up and looks me over.
