He wanted to answer “yes” to that question so badly, but he also didn’t want to put Molly on the spot. Especially since he wouldn’t be surprised if Lauren approached her. He tilted his head. “My personal life isn’t for sale today.”
Lauren’s eyes narrowed. “I didn’t think so. She didn’t know your coffee order anyway.”
And with that, she retreated to the other end of the store to do whatever it was she liked to do every day.
He let out a breath and raked his hand through his hair. He really needed a haircut.
As if sensing his frustration, Michelle appeared at his side. “Go take a breather. I’ll cover the register until she leaves.”
“You’re the best. Thanks, Michelle.”
“You’re welcome.”
Eli stepped into the back office and sighed loudly before dropping onto a chair. He was alone. Cole hadn’t come in today since he was helping take care of his girlfriend’s little sister, who she had custody of.
It was only a few minutes before Michelle came into the office. “She’s gone.”
“Thank you.” He sighed. “I need to figure out how to get her to stop coming in. We already denied her a job, and showing no interest in her advances clearly isn’t working.”
“Katie told me she left quickly when she thought you had a girlfriend. So get a girlfriend.”
He looked at her with his eyebrows raised. “I can’t just get a girlfriend.”
“Why not?”
“Because I don’t really want to date.” It was mostly the truth. He wanted to date, but the only person who had caught his eye in a long time was Molly. And there were too many reasons why that would be a bad idea.
“It doesn’t have to be a real relationship.”
He laughed. “Are you suggesting I get a fake girlfriend to scare Lauren off?”
She nodded. “That’s exactly what I’m saying.”
And before they could say anything else, the door swung open and Molly walked into the office. She stopped short when she saw them and turned red. “Oh, I’m sorry. Katie sent me back here to grab a few more pens.”
If there were anyone he wanted to fake-date, it would be Molly.
Michelle smiled brightly before turning to Eli. “You’re okay. Come on in.”
Molly walked across the room to the supply cabinet and pulled out a few pens before turning around. Michelle was still smiling brightly, so Eli bumped her with his arm.
“You look creepy. It’s freaking her out,” Eli said.
Molly laughed nervously as she walked back to the door. “I’ll let you two get back to whatever it is you’re doing.” And then she disappeared, closing the door behind her.
Michelle turned wide eyes to Eli.
“Not a good idea, Michelle.”
“Why not?”
“She’s an employee who works for us, plus I’ve only known her for like two weeks.”
“So?”
“Have you ever heard of sexual harassment?”
Michelle rolled her eyes. “Oh, please. She won’t think you’re harassing her. We just need to explain what’s going on.”
