I don’t care what it takes, I will get her to bring those bottles.
But even as I think in confident bravado, my face scrunches up, thinking about what I’m going to do if this planned attack doesn’t work.
Me:Will you stop it. There are four bottles of Cabernet on the counter. Grab and bring to me.
Evil:Are you lying about owning a restaurant?
Is this a Talented Mr. Ripley thing you’re doing
because how don’t you have wine?
Me:You think I look like Matt Damon?
Evil:Please say AI is texting me.
Me:You’re staring at the picture you took of me. Stop being so obsessed ... but it makes sense since we’re both jacked blondes with undeniable appeal.
Someone calls my name in the background, but I don’t pay any attention. I’m too immersed in this delicious little conversation.
Evil:I’d say you’re more a Gwyneth Paltrow.
Me:All I’m hearing is that I’d fuck me.
Evil:Great! You finally found someone who will.
A genuine laugh bursts from my chest. This is the most fun failure I’ve endured. Dammit. Come on, Evie, just give.
Me:Fella, bring me the wine. I’ll pay you for your timeif that’s what you want.
Evil:Ooo, I’m only looking for stock in peace and quiet ... are you selling that?
For fuck’s sake. She’s impossible.
Me:Evie!!!!!
Evil:I know how to spell my own name.
You’re the illiterate one. Remember?
That’s it. I’m pulling out the big guns.
Me:Never mind. It’s cool. Noah’s calling. I’ll figure out something else.
The most valuable lesson I learned from having sisters is if begging didn’t work, go straight to fear of exposure.Noah’s callingis my adult version ofI’ll tell Mom and Dad.
Evil:Calm down loser. I’ll be there in ten minutes to three hours depending on traffic. PS. You’re on kitty litter duty until you move out.
Hell yeah. I turn to the room and raise my arms. “Got her.” The crew breaks out into applause, and I stand in victory, laughing. “Now, let’s make me irresistible.”
Evie
It took me twenty-three minutes to deliver Chase his four bottles of Caymus to the restaurant, so he’s already barreling out the front.
“Hey,” he says, opening my car door literally as I put the car in park.
My keys are still jingling in the ignition as I whip my face to his eyes that are as bright as his smile. I can’t help it, because it feels contagious, so I grin too.
“Hi,” I breathe out, sounding a bit winded.
