“I didn’t know when you left. And I… needed to talk to Kevin.”
“About what?”
“The fact that I’m not ready to come back yet.”
“Oh… What did he say?”
“That he understands. That I can take whatever time I need. That my old position will always be there for me. And he encouraged me to talk to Shelly, which I already planned on doing soon. Oh, and we’re invited for dinner at their place on Wednesday.”
“Okay, that all sounds very good.”
“Yes.” He looks serious as he continues, “Thank you for being so patient with me. I was drifting away from myself, and you were like a lighthouse, strong and relentless. You brought me home, Andrea, and I’ll forever be thankful for it.”
“You’re welcome, baby.”
This time, the kiss he gives me is a little more intense, but I don’t really care. He isn’t our boss anymore, so it’s fine. “Want to get out of here?” he offers, barely pulling away.
“What do you have in mind?”
“Lunch? The Italian place?”
“That’s a great idea. I’m starving.”
“When are you not?”
“Ugh, you know me so well.” I think for a moment and suggest, “Can we take the nerds with us? It’d make them so happy.”
“What if I only want you?”
“You’ll have me all to yourself tonight. But right now, I’m willing to share you.”
“Hmm …”
Resigned, Lex releases me, and we return to the room. “Everyone. Lunch is on me today. Italian. Get your things. We’re leaving now.”
Yep, this definitely feels like old times, with him bossing everyone around like this. And none of the guys seem to mind as they all comply with the command, not questioning Lex’s authority. They all grab their jackets or coats, and within a few minutes, we’re off to the elevators. The merry band speaks with Lex the whole way to the ground floor, and I almost regret suggesting they all join us. Like the greedy woman I am, I enjoy having him all to myself, after all.
The mood is jolly as we walk toward the restaurant. Lex and I are a little behind while Brian, Joseph, and Steven lead the charge.
“So,” I start, looking up at Lex, “any big plans for my birthday on Saturday?”
“Should there be?”
“Thought it was one of the great dates of US history?”
“And I thought you didn’t even remember it was your birthday until I mentioned it.”
“Right, but you built expectations now. You need to plan something so we can celebrate.”
“As a matter of fact, I have a few ideas,” he says with a smirk.
Immediately, I perk up with excitement. “Really?!”
“Mh-hm.”
“Tell me more.”
“No.”
