I think.
Still, it’s hard not to dwell on the presentation, getting caught up in my thoughts and anxiety, especially since — because my plans are finished — my workload has lightened. More time in my own head without distractions isn’t necessarily a good thing.
That evening, Jayce and I are sitting in the living room together, watching highlights from his more recent game on SportsCenter when my phone buzzes. I pick it up, surprised to see it’s my dad. He doesn’t usually call me directly. We usually talk if Mom’s calling me, or his assistant reaches out to me about work.
With a frown, I answer the phone. “Hey, Dad.”
“Hi, Sutt.” His voice is warm, and I relax in an instant. “How are you, sweetheart?”
“I’m good,” I reply. “Just hanging out with Jayce.”
“Oh, say hello for me.”
Grinning, I turn to Jayce. “Dad says hi.”
Jayce gives me a half grin. “Hey, Mr. Holloway.”
Chuckling, I turn my attention back to dad. “So, what’s up?”
“I’ve got some good news,” he begins. “Martin Crane of Crane Appliances loved the design you put together for his company’s new corporate office. He wants to meet with you in person to talk over details of a contract.”
Excitement rushes through me. Crane Appliances is a big client. Not as big as Romero, but still a noteworthy catch. This is awesome! More proof that I can use to show I’m CEO-material.
“That’s great!” I exclaim.
“I thought maybe you could meet with him Friday,” Dad continues. “Since you’ll be home for the Bright Hearts Ball this weekend anyway, it would be easy enough to fit in a meeting with him.”
“Yeah, that’s no problem. I can do that.” If I’m going to be home already, why not? So long as it doesn’t interfere withpreparations for the ball — that is, the annual fundraiser that raises money to help children with heart defects. Mom’s been a sponsor since well before Colson died, and since I’ve been old enough to attend, I haven’t missed a single one.
“Excellent! I’ll get everything set up here at the office. You don’t have to worry about a thing. Just show up and charm him like I know you’re capable of.”
The small compliment has warmth spreading through me. “Sounds good, Dad.”
“I’ll let you go, then. See you when you get home on Thursday, sweetheart.”
“Yep, I’ll see you then.”
I hang up the phone, feeling pumped up and excited. Turning to Jayce, I see that he’s watching me with an expectant expression.
“I have a meeting with Crane Appliances Friday,” I tell him. “They asked for me specifically!”
Jayce beams, looking proud, and a wave of giddiness crashes over me.
“That’s great, Starling. That’d be a huge get! You’re going to kick ass.”
“I hope so.” Leaning my head on the back of the couch, I let out a small sigh. “I wish you could come with me this weekend.”
He nods. “I know. I wish I could go too, but I’ve got to be here for Friday’s game.”
I try not to let my disappointment show too much. I know he’d be with me if he could, but we both have responsibilities that we can’t just ignore. That’s life. That’s reality…which is what has been making our arrangement feel so real.
“Honestly, I wish I could be here for the game too,” I confess. “But this event is one of those can’t miss things.”
Jayce nods, his expression one of understanding.
“It’s all right,” he assures me. “There will be other games when you get back.”
When I get back…the way he says that is so natural and he sounds so assured that I’ll be back. No hesitation. No doubt.
