Realizing enough time has passed, I fix a few flyaway curls and take in my overall appearance. Seriously, is this the best there is out there? Is it too much to ask for someone to want me, for me? To not be a complete jerk, or someone who talks down to people?
Heading back out to our table, I pass Mateo with a grin and head nod. Reclaiming my seat, Marcus smiles brightly at me.
“That kid, Mikey, brought out some breadsticks, finally. I’ve been starving waiting, but don’t worry, I saved you one.” He points to a broken piece in the cloth-lined basket like he’s a gallant hero of some kind.
“That was so nice ofMateo,” I emphasize his name. “So, where were we?”
“Well, I was going to tell you about this client I had. The guy was the worst. He wanted to extend his credit at the bank, something about a piece of equipment being faulty and needing to replace it.” He waves his hand around nonchalantly. “But he missed a payment, so I instantly denied him.”
“Did you ask why he was late?” I’m really trying to be nice here.
“Something about having to close his business for a few days for repairs, cost them money, blah blah blah. Timeismoney, ya know?”
I swear, if Mara doesn’t call me in the next thirty seconds, I’m hiding her favorite mug.
As if she hears my threat telepathically, my phone starts ringing. “Excuse me,” I apologize. “I have to take this.”
He seems annoyed but waves me off.
“Hey, what’s going on?”
“Oh, ya know, just saving you from your date.” Mara snickers.
“That’s awful. Do you need help?” I ignore her snickering. I may hide her mug anyway.
“I’m just doing my sisterly duty here. But do you think Mateo can toss in some focaccia for me? I love the way Tomas makes it.”
“I’m not sure about that.”Yeah, like I’m giving her anything after this. “I’ll be there in ten minutes.”
“Fine. But consider us even.”
“I don’t know about all that,” I lament. “I’ll see you soon.”
Quickly ending the call with Mara, I give Marcus what I hope looks like an apologetic expression.
“I’m so sorry. It was Mara, and there’s an emergency with a vendor she needs help with.”
“Can’t it wait until tomorrow? We haven’t even gotten our food yet.”
“I’m so sorry to interrupt.” Mateo is standing next to our table, looking sheepish. “We were having some computer issues, and your order was deleted by accident. If you’re willing to wait a half hour, we can get it in for you.”
“There’s no need, I guess. Inconvenient as it may be, my beautiful date has to rush out, so don’t worry about it, kid. You may want to fix that for the future,” Marcus tells him haughtily before turning back to me. “Let me walk you out.”
“No, it’s fine. My car is right out front,” I tell him, pulling my coat on. “I appreciate the offer, though.”
“We’ll have to try for another date sometime,” Marcus offers, standing as well. He leans in for what I’m assuming is a kiss, but I turn my face at the last moment, letting his lips land on my cheek.Deep breaths, Mila. You’re almost home free.
“Sure,” I offer with a tight smile that probably looks more like a grimace.
Quickly gathering my bag, I head toward the exit. As soon as I make it outside, I inhale the crisp night air. Wow, what a jerk Marcus is. He always seemed so friendly at the bakery.
That’s it, I’m not dating anymore. I need to figure out how to get Mara back for this one.
Walking around to the side of the building, Matteo is waiting at their pickup entrance. Bless him. I quickly pull out a few bills and hand them to him, leaning in for a quick hug.
“Thank you for being a good sport tonight, Mateo. I’m so, so sorry.”
“You have nothing to be sorry for, Mila. That man in there, he is no good for you.” He smiles at me, his eyes serious.
