“I told you, Mia, I’m not boring. However,” I finish off the last bit of the cabernet in the glass, then reach for the tequila one, “I’m gonna need you to finish that so we can try this one.”
Mia nods, picking up her glass and sending it back.
“So, she does know how to finish drinks,” I tease, opening the next bottle.
Her eyes cut to me with a glare. “Don’t ruin our fun, Adam.”
Pouring the brown liquid into both our glasses, I meet that cute grumpy look on her face. “I wouldn’t dream of it.”
“You absolutely did not.” Mia tilts her head back with a laugh.
“Of course, I did. He was sneaking back into my sister’s apartment—why would I let the opportunity to fuck with him pass me by? I was severely hungover, but it was so worth it.”
Mia’s laugh is sweet and light, just like this canned mocktail champagne we’re now trying. But really, I’d love to bottle up her laugh if I could.
“You couldn’t pay me to run—let alone run hungover!”
“I threw my freaking guts up after, but again the look on his face after seeing me in the hallway will forever be worth it.”
This sly smile comes to her face as she lifts her can up to her lips. “God, I hope he gets you back one day.”
“He’s marrying my sister, and I’m paying for this party. I think we’re good.”
“They’re lucky to have you, you know.” Mia leans up on her desk. “I’ll admit I’m always a little jealous when you all come in. Everyone’s so close. Granted, it’s a bunch of people in love with someone else in the friend group.”
I let out an amused huff. I guess she’s not wrong there. Maybe that has something to do with Callie’s concerns too. Everyone has someone in our friend group. It’s really just a matter of time before Tripp and Emma figure it out.
“Crazy thought, but maybe next game night, you put off work and come hang out with us.”
Come spend time with me.
She hums before hiding her smile with another sip. “I’ll consider it.”
I’ll take it for now.
“You know, Jensen’s officially leaving. I have to find her replacement now, which sucks.”
“Ah, prepping your excuse to get out of game night now.”
“I’m being serious.” She chuckles.
“Hey, that’s my bit,” I say and she gives me one more small laugh before it dies off. “You okay?”
“Yeah, I’m good. It’s just been weird this week, I guess. The place is officially mine now… Although I’ve run it for the past year. I don’t know, it just feels a little surreal. Then my bestbartender tells me she’s leaving, and I’m so happy for her, but it was a tough pill to swallow. Especially when my dad asked about the new job listing.”
“Is your dad not supportive?” I ask very cautiously. I’m very accustomed to an asshole father, but I hadn’t really gotten that vibe from Mia.
“No, he is. Extremely supportive. I guess I wanted to give the appearance of a perfectly run business at least for a bit. One that doesn’t have questions, whether good or bad, in the very first forty-eight hours of being the owner.” Her facial expression sours. “I’m sorry, that’s really silly of me. I don’t know why I just dumped that on you.”
“I don’t think it’s silly. But if I’m being honest, I can’t see how anyone who’s seen the love you show this place could even think that you’re not the most capable person for the job.”
A smile tugs at her lips again. “In this industry, you’d be surprised, but thank you. I appreciate it.”
I know I don’t have to coddle Mia. Her unwavering confidence is so incredibly sexy, but this softer side has my hands twitching to reach for her. To give her comfort. She doesn’t need my reassurance, and I don’t think she was looking for it either, but I wanted to give it.
Mia tilts her head back, taking a big gulp of the champagne, then straightens her spine. “Thanks for coming down here to try all these. I know this was last minute and a little unconventional.”
“Is that supposed to be another crack at my ‘boring’ personality? Mia, what do I need to do to prove that theory wrong?”
