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I ponder this a long while before my eyes get heavy. Soon, I’m drifting off. And I do it thinking about Max’s dimple.
***
Max
“If I wanted to impress a woman, what would I do?”
Nik grins. “If you were me and wanted to impress a woman, you’d just be alive.”
Trick guffaws. “Whoa. Someone get a wheelbarrow for the douche’s head.”
Ghost bites into his sandwich, shoulders shaking in silent laughter. I look to my brother and throw a balled up napkin at his head. “You’re so funny. Asshole.”
The guys laugh, but I’m frustrated. “I’m bein’ serious. It’s been a long time since I’ve had to do any of this shit.”
Suddenly, Ghost narrows his eyes at me. Swallowing his food, he asks, “Who is it you’re trying to impress?”
I don’t know why it makes me nervou
s, but Ash just has that effect on people. I laugh it off. “None of your business, Asher.” When I put emphasis on his real name, his jaw tightens. Not a lot of people out there can get away with calling Ghost by his given name. As far as I know, he only gives women he loves the honor. I clear my throat. “It’s no one.” Then I lie through my teeth. “I’m thinkin’ about dating.”
I feel their eyes on me. Quiet overcomes the table.
Nik’s the first to speak. “Seriously?”
I shrug, not sure what to say. Dating has never been an option before, but the older Ceecee gets, I guess I can start meeting women. There’s only one problem. I don’t want to meet women. I’m done with women. I had a woman—a woman I thought was a good woman—and it got me nothing but heartbreak. I loved Maddy. Loved her so much I would’ve done anything for her. But she changed. Soon after Ceecee was born, she wasn’t the woman I fell in love with.
But I stuck by her, and I would’ve stuck by her ‘til death if she had let me. I’m dedicated that way. And what was I rewarded with?
Attitude and ugly-ass words.
If you’re thinking I’m bitter from one bad relationship, you’re right. Just thinking about dating has my stomach coiled tight.
I clear my throat and straighten in my chair. “Maybe.”
Nik smiles down at the table. Looking back up, he nods. “I think that would be cool.”
Trick nudges my shoulder and jokes, “You can’t have Lola.”
I grin and poke the bear. “Nah, I want Nat.”
Ash stands suddenly, his chair squealing behind him. He points at me, jaw rigid. “Lucky I love ya, bro.”
Nik asks, “Got anyone in mind? Anyone in particular?”
I’m honest when I say, “Not really, I’m just takin’ it as it comes.”
My brother slaps a hand on my shoulder and responds, “Sometimes the best things are unplanned.”
The guys make their leave and get back to work, leaving me sitting in the chill-out room with my own thoughts for company. My thoughts consist of green eyes and attitude.
I stand, shake my head to clear it, and head back to my office. Once inside, I take my cell out of my pocket and dial the number I was given the night before. It rings, and rings, and rings some more.
“Hi, you have reached Helena Kovac. I’m unable to take your call. Please leave your name and your number, and I’ll get back to you as soon as I can.” Beep.
I’m suddenly panicked. “Um…Helena. Hi, it’s Max. Nik’s brother. The guy you found sleeping in your bed. The same guy who threw pizza at you last night.” Oh my God. Shut your mouth, idiot! “Anyways, I just wanted to see if you were free tonight. I mean, I know it’s Saturday and you’re probably going to the club tonight with the girls, but—”
Beep.
