“They weren’t exactly thrilled when I didn’t want to enter the family business. Being an accountant just wasn’t on my radar. We see each other for holidays and special occasions, but generally, we get on better when it’s from a distance.”
“I’m sorry. That’s tough.”
“Not really. I think it’s just life as you grow up.”
“Am I the weirdo here who gets along great with his family?”
“Not at all. I think that’s amazing. Do you have any siblings?”
“Three brothers and a sister.”
“Wow! That’s crazy to me. I’m an only child. My best friend is the closest I have to a sister.”
“They’re great. We butted heads as kids, but we’re all pretty tight now. Close in age, so that helps.”
“Are they chefs also?” Our conversation is so easy as we navigate the traffic. It’s still chaos even at this time of night.
“No. We all chose different paths. My sister is a doctor. My older brother is a hockey player for the Falcons. My two younger brothers are twins. Jamie is a firefighter, and Rocco drives NASCAR.”
“You have a very accomplished family. Your parents must be proud. I think your mom is probably a saint, having so many kids. I can’t imagine having so many siblings.”
“It’s loud, but it’s a lot of fun.”
“Wait a minute. Your brother plays for the Falcons?”
“Yeah.”
“Griffin Stevens,” we say in unison.
“Oh my God. My roommate is obsessed with him. Wait until she hears this.”
“I can arrange for her to meet him sometime if you’d like.”
“Seriously? She would love me forever. I don’t want to put you to any trouble, though.”
“Not a problem. I’m used to everyone wanting to meet ‘the hot Stevens brother.’ ”
“You’re kidding, right?” I can’t help the laughter that escapes me.
“What?”
“You’re ridiculous-looking. Like so handsome it should be illegal. Greek god gorgeous. Your brother is hot, but not even close to you.” I realize I’ve just overstepped by a good mile or two.
“Greek god, huh?” His smile is earth-shattering.
“I’m so sorry. I shouldn’t have said that.”
“I’m not going to turn down a compliment.” I am so relieved when my building comes into view. This car has become claustrophobic all of a sudden.
“It was still inappropriate. You’re my boss.”
“I’m a human being. I would like to think that I’m not just a ‘boss.’ We’re going to be working together in close quarters, so I’d like to think we can become friends.” That’s the letdown of the century. It’s the ‘I like you… as a friend.’ I call him a god—I’ll berate myself for that later—and I’m a ‘friend.’
“Sure. Thanks for the ride,” I say as he comes to a stop in front of my building.
I’m about to jump out of the car as quickly as possible when he reaches over and rests his hand on my arm. “It’s really fine. Don’t worry about it, Aspen.”
“Thanks.” I open the door and don’t look back. If the ground could open and swallow me whole right now, I’d take it. I scurry inside, mortified that I just embarrassed myself in front of Chef Stevens.
