“I like Evangeline.”
A thrill skitters down my spine. I like the sound of my name on his lips, too.
“Mick came up with acceptable options for you?” he presses.
“He did, thank you.” I nod. “I still think it’s unnecessary?—”
Angling closer, he brings two fingers to my chin and lifts so I’m forced to look at him. He gives me a slow, stern shake of his head.
He holds my gaze, the intensity of his stare extinguishing any further argument from me.
And just like every other time he’s touched me, the contact iselectric.
Except now, it’s not just a jolt of awareness that registers in my brain. Now I’m a live wire, and he’s the current. I tilt my face higher in subtle invitation. I crave so much more from this man. My hunger for his attention is deeply rooted, and I find myself hastily hoping he’ll bow down and kiss me right here, right now.
As soon as that thought enters my mind, I jump back.
No way, Evan. You cannot be lusting after this man. Not only is he your much older boss, but he’s your ex-boyfriend’sdad.
Sighing and shaking his head, he steps back.
Good to know I’m not the only one affected here.
“I’ve got to get back to work,” he tells me, his professionalism and poise firmly locked down once more. “Please, go home and get some rest,” he urges. “I’ll see you around, Evangeline.”
CHAPTER 14
ALARIC
The paddock is buzzing with the kind of energy I crave all year. Today is qualifying, which can be just as exciting as the race itself. Every driver will have their chance to clock the fastest time on the circuit. Starting positions for tomorrow’s race are determined today. The grid is well-established, with only one rookie out there this year. But despite how much time drivers spend training during the offseason, there are always some cobwebs to dust off during the first few races.
As I make my way over to the garage, I keep my focus on my phone. I may also be trying to convince myself that I’m not looking for a certain petite blonde.
I’m starting to crave her attention. It’s a foreign and perplexing desire. I’ve always been fine on my own, never interested in the company of one specific person. It’s one of the reasons for my divorce. As much as I loved and cared for Sophie, I never craved her company, and I was never deeply affected by her presence or lack thereof.
Another realization that’s taken me aback? I like the version of myself that peeks out when Evangeline’s around. I’m surprisingly candid and open when she’s around. There’s an ease to our undeniable connection. Like I don’t have to be perfect. Like the weight of the world isn’t all on my shoulders.
I’m also shockingly reckless in her company, as proven on more than one occasion. My mind wanders and my impulses are difficult to quell. When I touched her last night, the sensation was reminiscent of the celebratory fireworks blasting off at the end of a grand prix.
I shouldn’t have touched her at all, I remind myself as I scan into the back of the garage. That was a mistake. A damning, moronic blunder.
It won’t happen again. It can’t. Not only is it wildly inappropriate to have such an intimate interaction with a subordinate, but it’s unfair to my team if I’m distracted. I don’t have the time or bandwidth to lean into an attraction when my focus needs to be on winning and improving Granata’s reputation. My feelings are the lowest priority in this situation.
Stashing my phone, I round one of the tight corners, finding Amira coming toward me.
“VIPs will be arriving in the garage in thirty minutes,” she reminds me as she breezes by.
Noted. But not my top priority right now. I’m anxious to speak to each of my drivers.
I check in with Ferris first.
Clapping him on the back, I lean against a tool chest.
“How are you feeling?” I’m genuinely curious about his mental state, but it’s best to avoid getting into anything too deep if he’s already getting his head in the game, so I keep it vague.
“Good,” he assures me with a swift, confident nod. “Ready to go. Ready to push.” With that, he pulls his balaclava over his head.
I grin. “We believe in you. I’m glad to have you on this team.” Straightening, I clap him on the shoulder once more and wave to a few of the mechanics nearby.
