BAILEY: So you saw your hot bodyguard mostly naked?
KAT: Yes
BAILEY: With your post-orgasmic glow?
KAT: Yes
BAILEY: What did he say?
KAT: He was professional
KAT: But I was rambling about getting the awkwardness out of the way and gah! I could not stop talking and it feels like he KNEW I’d just gotten off and now I have to face him!
BAILEY: Do you want him to know?
KAT: Of course not!
BAILEY: Then don’t say anything. Put on something that makes you feel confident. Put some makeup on and fix your hair and go downstairs like the badass you are
KAT: But…
BAILEY: He can speculate all he wants, girl, but no one is allowed to make you feel bad for indulging in a little self-care in your own home
KAT: I can write it but my reality is so lacking
KAT: But I shouldn’t be embarrassed, right?
BAILEY: Right
KAT: I am a badass bestselling author and I’m going to act like it
BAILEY: That’s my girl
BAILEY: Now go get dressed and get downstairs before he thinks you’re stalling
I don’t letmyself hesitate as my foot hits the first step.
And then the second.
My stride is confident as I descend to the first floor where I can smell coffee brewing and hear the tapping of computer keys.
It’s like music to my ears.
“Good morning,” I say with my professional, networking smile firmly in place, the one that makes me look both approachable and interested in whatever someone is saying. My linen slacks are comfortable but professional with pockets and a relaxed fit that I paired with a black three-quarter-sleeve sweater.
“Morning,” Tom replies in a low voice, his tone soothing and giving nothing away.
I guess we’re on the same page about last night.
And that’s a good thing, because I have a full schedule and I need him to get on board.
“I have three events this week. Wednesday and Thursday are both at local schools and then Saturday I’m at a chain bookstore in Chicago. Hazel will be there and another author I haven’t met but who is also from the area.”
Tom nods. “I’ll attend the school events and Ozzy will be just off property, and then we’ll have a small team for the Chicago event.”
“Do you really think that’s necessary?” I ask, retrieving the mocha coffee creamer from the fridge and pouring it into my mug.
“We’re not taking any chances. More people equals more chances for things to go sideways.”
