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“Just like that?”
“He was worried it might not last long. Some of these parts go fast.”
I shouldn’t feel miffed. It’s silly. He doesn’t have to check in with me every time he runs an errand.
I look down at the box of chocolate chip muffins. “He can have one when he gets back, I guess. They’ll still be good in a few hours, right?”
“Oh, he had to go to Bixby. I expect he’ll spend the night.”
My mouth falls open, but I quickly close it. I don’t want sneaky Leslie to think anything is going on.
Too late.
She puts her magazine down and walks over to where we’re talking. “What’s that, Drew Poo? Muffins?” She sneers down at the box. “You know some people pay for their car repairs with money.”
That does it. “And some people know when they’ve worn out their welcome.”
Leslie looks me up and down and laughs. “I know you’re not talking to me.” She waves her hand in an arc. “It’s called a place of business. Look it up.”
“A place of business, as in car repairs. Not the kind of business you’re after.”
“What kind of business is that, princess?” She steps closer.
“Don’t call me princess.” My voice is low, just above a growl, and I notice Billy take a step back.
Part of me is embarrassed to be having this out in front of him. The other part of me is sick of Leslie’s shit and ready to call her on it.
The other part is winning today.
Something in my eyes must warn her, because Leslie crosses her arms over her chest. “What are you worried about? Afraid your boyfriend’s going to see something he likes better?”
“Gray is a man, and as long as I’ve known him, he’s never been interested in you.” I’m fighting hard to keep my voice calm, steady. “It’s really pathetic the way you keep coming around here. Have some self-respect, please.”
“What’s pathetic is you trying to hold onto something that’s over.” She goes and sits in the chair again. “Gray has changed. He’s not the same person who left here. You don’t understand him anymore.”
I walk straight to where she’s sitting and look down at her. “Stay away from Gray.”
She slaps her hands on her thighs and stands again, putting us practically nose to nose. “Don’t tell me what to do, Drew baby.”
“I’m also not a baby.”
“You’re also not going to call dibs on Gray.” Her hands are on her hips. “He came back, and I waited to see if he’d pick up with you. He didn’t. He’s here.”
“He’s mine.”
“It doesn’t look that way to me.”
“Look again.”
We’re both breathing hard, nostrils flared, and in each other’s faces when Billy decides to risk his life. “Want me to take those muffins?”
My eyes drop to the box, which I’m gripping so hard, it’s almost bent in half. I loosen my fingers and hand it to him. “Thanks, Billy.”
“I’ll tell Gray you brought these, but I’m sure he’ll call or text you. He talks about you all the time.” I meet his dark gaze, and he smiles.
Leslie shoves her hands on her hips with a huff. “Whose side are you on?”
“I’d like to be on yours.” He turns to her with a wink. “Gray’s not available, but I am.”
