“What do you two have going on?” he asked, voice low now. “And why is TaskRabbit still here?”
I tilted my head. “Good morning to you too.”
“I asked you a question.”
“And I heard it,” I said. “I’m working. Like you said I should.”
He looked me over slowly. “This what working look like?”
“Yes,” I said, unbothered. “Field research.”
Wyatt let out a quiet breath behind me.
Marlon didn’t even glance at him.
“Mm,” he said. “And he part of the research too?”
I smiled slightly. “He’s helpful.”
“I’m sure he is.”
Ouuu. He mad.
I shifted my weight, stepping a little closer and walking into dangerous territory. “Relax. It’s not what it looks like. I’m working on a plan and Wyatt was just helping me.”
“A plan,” he repeated.
“Yes,” I said. “I just need to get a few things sorted first, then I’ll come find you later and walk you through it.”
He studied me for a second.
“You been busy,” he said.
“I haven’t slept,” I replied.
“I can tell.”
“Wow,” I sighed. “You say the sweetest things.”
Wyatt coughed behind me like he was trying not to laugh.
Marlon’s eyes flicked to him for half a second.
That was enough. Then back to me.
“Check your office,” he said, stalking over to Wyatt.
I frowned slightly, then turned to Hartland, nodding my head toward the building for him to follow me.
As I headed inside, I looked back to see Marlon whispering intensely to Wyatt. I knew he was fighting like hell to remain professional and not choke him out.
I mouthed an apology to Wy because I really didn’t mean to get him in trouble. He gave me a friendly grin, which Marlon caught.
“Inside now!” he barked. I couldn’t help myself. I gave him the finger and ran inside before he reprimanded me.
Thankfully, he didn’t follow. I pushed my office door open?—
And stopped.
