Bebe came bouncing down the stairs. “Ready, kiddo?” Jason asked.
“Yup!” she said cheerfully, heading toward the door.
I followed them out.
As Jason closed the car door behind Bebe, I hesitated before speaking. “Jason,”
He turned, waiting.
“I’m sorry,” I said simply.
Jason looked at me for a long moment before giving a brief nod. “Take care,” he said, then climbed into his car and drove off with Bebe.
I stood there watching them go.
“Well, that wasn’t too awkward,” Evan said, coming up behind me. “He’s actually pretty cool.”
I exhaled, shaking my head. “Yeah, but I still feel like a dick. I was at his house this morning. With his ex-wife. I slept with her in this house while they were married. She decorated my house, and he knows it.”
Evan gave me a look. “Didn’t you say he cheated on Natalie? Obviously, their marriage wasn’t exactly thriving, or she wouldn’t have given your lame ass a second thought.”
“He didn’t have a full-on affair like Natalie and I did. They could’ve worked it out. They might still be together if it weren’t for me.”
Evan rolled his eyes. “Don’t beat yourself up about it. Sounds like he’s moved on. He’s got a girlfriend, right? If they’re both happier apart, then so be it. Now can we get back to the game? Enough of this Hallmark Channel crap.”
I laughed despite myself. “You’re something else, man.”
“Damn right,” Evan said with a grin.
“Thanks for listening,” I added, meaning it.
Evan smirked. “Anytime. Now grab us another round. The second half is starting.”
CHAPTER 43
I SAW DADDY KISSING MRS. CLAUSE
NATALIE
It was Tuesday, and I was headed to Will’s for lunch and to prepare for a meeting with Alan and his investor about another restaurant going into The City Center. The concept was exciting—an upscale Italian dining spot led by a chef who had studied in Italy for years. I was already visualizing an open kitchen where customers could view the pasta being made by hand. I couldn’t wait to work on this project, especially under Alan. It was an incredible opportunity.
When I arrived at Will’s, I let myself in through the garage, the door shutting softly behind me. He’d given me the code, a small but meaningful gesture that made me smile.
Will was in the kitchen on the phone, leaning casually against the counter. He glanced up as I walked in, his eyes lighting up. He mouthed, sorry, and I nodded, setting down the sandwiches and pasta salad I’d brought and grabbing plates to set up for lunch.
When he ended the call, he came straight over, pulling me into a kiss that left me breathless.
“Hi, you,” he said softly.
“How long has it been since I’ve seen you?” I asked, smiling.
“Too long,” he said, his hands sliding to my waist.
I laughed lightly, shaking my head.
His lips trailed down my neck, making me shiver. “Do we have time for a quickie?” he murmured, his voice low and teasing.
“What about the food?” I said, though my resolve was already crumbling.
