Nic pipes up, “Absolutely, you should.”
“I’d love to.” I contemplate her comment about ‘more events.’ I could build something more here. The application I submitted to the global hotel chain seems unlikely to lead to anything since it’s been almost a month.
The bell above the door chimes, and Ryan walks in. His eyes find mine, and his smile makes my heart skip.
“Ladies,” he nods to everyone before turning to me. “Got a minute? I was thinking about the vendor needs for the fundraiser.”
I follow him to the counter where the owner, Callie is arranging fresh pastries. “So, I talked to my friend at the Willow Tree Café. They’re interested in catering.”
“Really?” I pull out my phone and type in my planning notebook app. “That would be perfect for the VIP section.”
“VIP section?” His eyebrows rise as he steals a piece of scone from my plate.
“Hey!” I playfully swat his hand. “And yes, we could sell special passes to include a private viewing area for the demonstrations, premium food options...”
“You never stop thinking, do you?” His eyes crinkle at the corners.
“Can’t help it.” I tap my phone against my chin. “Like right now, I’m planning how to get revenge for my stolen bite of scone.”
He laughs, deep and genuine. “Worth the risk.” Ryan leans down and kisses my cheek.
“You’re not forgiven.” I say, smirking.
“How about you come with me back to the station and get a feel for it?” he asks.
“I’d love to.”
I say goodbye to Nic and Brittany while grabbing my bag and leave with Ryan.
I leanagainst the doorframe of Station One’s kitchen, watching Ryan demonstrate proper equipment checks to Holden. The easy rhythm of their interaction, peppered with good-natured ribbing, brings a smile to my face.
“You’re doing that thing again,” Ryan calls out, catching my eye.
“What thing?”
“Making mental notes. I can see the checklists forming in your head.”
I smirk because he’s caught me red-handed.
Romeo snorts from his spot at the table. “She’s probably planning where to reorganize next. Watch out, Cap, she’ll have your office color-coded by next week.”
“Actually,” I tap my iPad, “I have ideas.”
Ryan crosses the room, peering over my shoulder. “Of course you do. Want to see how we run this place? We’ve got a drill in fifteen.”
“Really?” My heart jumps at the chance to be in more of his world.
“Come on, I’ll show you the ropes. Just don’t rearrange my entire station while you’re watching.”
I follow him through the bay, soaking in the controlled chaos as the crew preps for their drill. How they move around each other, anticipating needs before they’re voiced, speaks volumes about their bond. Ryan explained the lingo—they call the station “the house,” the team “the crew.” But those are only words. What I’m seeing is family. What I’m standing in is home. Ryan’s way of sharing with me and his introspection is hot. I don’t understand how someone this handsome and intelligent is single.
“This is incredible,” I murmur, watching Holden and Blake run through their gear checks in perfect sync.
Ryan’s hand finds the small of my back. “Wait until you watch us in big action.”
Damn.The suggestive tone of those words has my mind wandering to intimate scenarios between us behind closed doors back at his house.
Down, girl, down.
