Chapter16
Maverick
With the weather improving, we were laying the foundation for the patio.I was working late nights and hadn't had time to schedule another date.
It was a large project, and I didn't want to make any mistakes.But I also hadn't done much to make her feel special.I texted her, and we talked occasionally before we went to bed.But I was too tired to talk for long.
Tonight, my brothers were getting together at the bar, so I said I'd stop by for one beer.I really wanted to go home and fall into bed.
This time, Cooper and Morgan were present, so they were seated at a long table instead of at the bar.
When I sat down, Morgan said, "Haven't seen much of you lately."
"This job is keeping me busy."
Hudson winked."I bet."
I shot him a look because I wasn't talking about Belle.In fact, I felt like I'd been neglecting her.But I couldn't figure out how to fit in a girlfriend with my work schedule."I'm working six days a week to get it done as quickly as possible."
"That's a rough schedule," Ford said."Are you sure that's sustainable?"
I nodded."It's what I set in the beginning.It'll be fine."
"You can't have much time for anything else," Cooper observed.
I shrugged."I'm too tired to do anything else anyway."
"You didn't take our advice about making a move on Belle?"Hudson asked.
My shoulders tightened."We went out once."
"You didn’t want to see her again?"Hudson asked, watching me closely.
I cradled the beer the waitress handed me."I do.”
"Have you made plans?"Ford asked.
"It's tough with this project.I'm busy."We were up late that one night, and I couldn't do that too many nights in a row.I wouldn't be mentally sharp for the work I needed to do.
"Maybe you're working too much," Cooper said.
This was a frequent topic he liked to bring up with me.
"We have other projects lined up after this one.I can't just take time off."
Cooper shook his head."How many times do I have to tell you that if you need a week or two off, we can push a project back?"
"Everyone wants their project done as soon as possible."I didn't want to disappoint people.I was building a reputation as someone who was steady and reliable.
Cooper gave me a look."You're going to burn out, and then what?You're no good to anyone."
I rolled my eyes."What does that even mean?How would I burn out?This is all I've ever wanted to do, and I like the money that comes with it."
Ford tipped his bottle back."There's something called a work-life balance.You need one."
"You know how important this job is.It's right in the center of town, and everyone's going to see it.If it's amazing, it will be great for word-of-mouth referrals."
"Won't that just make you busier?"Cooper asked.
