Miles is like, what? Ten years older than me?
Give or take a few years, if he started when I did.
That makes him thirty-two.
Oh.
Is that a thing? Why is this a problem? No,whyis this a problem?
Ah, fuck.
Kels and his stupid matchmaking bullshit has my head all turned about over a guy who is off limits. My boss. A man who, unless you are willing to risk your career, is forbidden. Intra-crew relationships are forbidden. Not to mention the power imbalance between us. Miles is responsible for assessing my probationary year.
It’s a conflict of interest that should not exist.
It doesn’t.
Kiddo.Proof nothing exists.
So why does that burn so bad?
Chapter 13
MILES
The guy in front of me could body double for a neon sign. I fold my arms, leaning a hip on the front desk as he chatters on about dogs. My dog, in particular.
“So, how old are you?” His eyes study me as he waits for a response. Is he looking for honesty? Who’d know.
My brows drop. “How is that relevant to Petal’s care?”
“Well, is she going to outlive you and fret her little self into an early grave?” He pops a hip, tossing an accusing look my way.
Why do I have the feeling I am being set up?
“Thirty-four, and I don’t think I’m going to do her the disservice of ending up on the wrong side of the grass before she does.”
His face pinches. “Well, this vocation of yours might be the thing to do it.”
What the fuck is it with this week and death, hey?
Yeah, nah, I’m done talking to this gu?—
“Kels! What on earth are you doing here?” London flies from the side door that leads to the garage.
Kels, or whatever his name is, bursts to life like a busted pipe on Main Street. His hands fly out, and he runs for her. Londonthrows herself around him, and they cuddle for what feels like an age.
“Oh, I missed you this week,” London says, releasing him. Her gaze lands on me, and she tilts her head. “What are you up to?”
“Nothing, girl. Isn’t a concerned citizen and puppy lover allowed to make absolutely certain his pride and joy is taken care of?”
“I told you.” I lean toward them, still not leaving the safety of the bench. “Petal is fine.”
Kel turns back, huffing a laugh. “Who was talking about the dog, handsome?”
Oh, so now Petal’sthe dog. This guy’s flipped his lid.
His gaze narrows as I stand watching.
