I’m sure I’m staring like a dog in heat, but I cannot help myself.
She is breathtaking, and I am enchanted.
I have got to convince her to go out with me.
Letting her go without exploring the connection between us would be sinful.
“How exactly do you two know each other?” my mother asks in a prickly tone I’m all too accustomed with.
No doubt, she has picked up on the vibe between us, and she’s not happy.
If she could scowl, she would be doing so.
“Stevie attends UO,” I explain, not taking my eyes from the woman who has instantly captivated me. “She’s a sophomore like me. We met at the bar where I was playing Friday night. She was waitressing there too.”
“What a hardworking young woman,” the governor says, and I couldn’t agree more.
I wonder if this is why Stevie said she didn’t need the distraction. Is it more the case she doesn’t have the time to date? I don’t see how she can have much free time if she holds down two jobs and full-time studies.
Yet, I won’t let that stop me.
Stubborn determination is practically my middle name.
“We need more young people setting such good examples,” the governor adds. “Well done, young lady.” Paul is a good man, and I know he means well, but it’s coming off a bit patronizing.
“Thank you, sir.” Stevie’s cheeks pink a little, and I can tell she’s uncomfortable.
“We should let Stevie do her job,” Pepper says, sending a friendly smile in Stevie’s direction. “The restaurant is full, and I’m sure she’s busy.”
Stevie shoots a grateful smile in Pepper’s direction. “What would you all like?”
You to go out on a date with me.
I think it, but I don’t articulate it. No sense in riling my mother up further.
But if Stevie thinks I’m giving up, she has another think coming.
I have never been more determined to win a girl over than I am in this moment.
ChapterFive
Stevie
“Ithink you have an admirer.” Mom lets loose a grin as she subtly jerks her head in the direction of the Allen table while I enter more orders into the system.
“Mom,” I hiss, glancing up briefly. “Stop looking. He’ll notice.”
“Garrick Allen has not taken his eyes off you. I’ve watched him staring at you from across the room all afternoon. He looks smitten.”
“I’m sure his mother loves that.” I know who everyone is at that table because Mom and the club manager updated me so I would take extra care of the VIPs of VIPs.
The room is swarming with important people, but it’s vital we keep the Allen family happy so they’ll agree to sponsor the event annually. It’s the only reason I didn’t beg to be reassigned after I realized Garrick was here. Most of the experienced servers are out sick, and I didn’t trust any of the others not to fuck it up. I loved working here. They were always good to me, and they treat Mom well, so I’m sucking it up and doing my duty.
“Ivy has dined here a few times in the past year,” Mom says, lowering her voice so no one can hear. “She’s a snooty bitch. She always finds something to complain about, and she’s extremely rude. It’s no wonder Hugh Allen divorced her. He’s such a nice man. I don’t know how he married her in the first place.”
“Is Garrick their only child?” I ask despite my better judgment.
Mom nods. “Hugh has twin sons with his current wife. They’re such a lovely family. I spoke with Garrick earlier, and I can tell he takes after his father. He has lovely manners and good taste if you have caught his eye!” She winks at me, and I roll my eyes. “He’s very handsome too.”
