Page 29 of Miss Treated

She squeezed my hand. “I like to think it’s because you haven’t found the right fit, whether it’s a job or a woman.”

I did too. “Do me a favor, and don’t mention me asking Kelsey out to Dad or to Aunt Sophia. Please.” Then I’d have to quit in order to avoid the lectures.

“I promise not to. By the way, I heard you’re heading to New York next week?”

“Yeah.” We’d made our reservations. The thought of traveling with Kelsey was both exciting and nerve-wracking.

“You still take Xanax to help?” My mom was the only one aside from my doctor who knew.

“Yeah. I’ve got plenty.” They made me sleepy, though, so if I took one, I’d miss an opportunity to use the five and a half hours to chat with Kelsey. “How is Dad feeling?”

My mom suddenly averted her eyes. “You know your father. He’s always busy.”

“He called Leo to ask him to come to his party.”

She sighed. “It’s nothing to worry about. He just wants his sons there for his birthday.”

I wasn’t sure I believed her.

Come Monday I was determined to make certain things were not awkward with Kelsey. I knocked on her office door first thing in the morning.

“Come in,” she sang out.

Damn, as soon as I opened the door, I forgot how to breathe. Her hair was up with loose tendrils around her face, and she was wearing a cream-colored blouse. But her nervous manner gave me pause. I hoped to put her at ease. “Good morning. How was your weekend home?”

“Good, thanks. Um, how was your weekend?”

“Terrific. Did you get your itinerary for the New York trip?” We were due to leave on Wednesday, visit the office Thursday, and fly back on Friday.

“I did, thank you.”

“Everything okay with it?”

“Yes, it looks good.”

“On Thursday night there’s a charity event at the hotel we’re staying in. It’s for a New York foster kids program, and my mom bought a table. You don’t have to go, but I’d love if you did.”

“As your date?”

“No, as a representative of Chambers Tech, one of the event’s sponsors. And perhaps as my friend who could keep me company. But no pressure either way.”

Her lips parted. “I’d like that. Is it black tie?”

“It is.”

“Okay. I’ll pack accordingly.”

“Terrific. I’ll leave you to it.” I turned to go, but her voice stopped me.

“Dominic, wait.”

“Yeah?” My heart was in my throat.

She hesitated, but then seemed to change her mind about speaking. “Have a good day.”

I flashed her a smile. “You too.”

Chapter Thirteen