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AUSTIN
The Mavericks rooftopis packed in summer, but my buddies and I have a corner booth tucked around the side of the bar. It’s close enough to the action, but far enough away to hear each other talk. On a lazy Saturday morning, there’s a great vibe going, and we’re mixing business with pleasure, catching up on the latest company updates, while taking in the rays.
Flynn returns to the table with another round, dressed in his trademark work jeans and a dusty cotton T-shirt, fresh from one of his construction sites. “Drinks for five,” he announces, setting the tray on the table.
“Yes, and delivered with masterful speed,” Seb smirks, taking a beer. He has the dry humor that befits him as an Englishman, and he’s our resident liquor expert. “Should we be worried about the service? Can’t have our bartenders falling behind.”
I chuckle. “He took so long because he was giving the full-court press to a pretty girl.”
“Guilty,” Flynn says, with absolutely no guilt in his voice. “And I got her number. Like I’m always telling you, Austin, you should try to grow a beard like mine. Then maybe the ladies would be into you.”
“Thanks for the tip, Flynny-boy,” I joke. “Getting laid has always been so difficult for me, as a pro athlete. A true struggle.”
Charlie snorts, glancing up from a thick stack of business documents. “Should we host a telethon?” he teases. “Canvas for a date?”
“Like we can find a woman in New York whohasn’thooked up with Austin,” Dash drawls, joining the table.
“Says the world’s most devoted boyfriend,” Flynn cracks. “I’m surprised you dragged yourself out of Callie’s bed to join us.”
“And miss gracing you with my presence?” Dash jokes. “I would never.”
I sit back, sipping my beer with a smile. During my decade on the road playing ball, I missed out on a lot—catching up over an impromptu beer, quick meetings about bar business, getting razzed by these dummies. Retiring from baseball was difficult and self-confidence-jolting but also a huge relief. It’s great to be settled in one place now, just shooting the shit.
Dash nudges my arm. “I’m surprised you’re not out there with Flynn, turning on the charm.”
“He’s slowing down, must be getting old,” Flynn says. “I haven’t seen you exit our fine establishment with anyone on your arm for… months now.”
“Just because I’m more discreet than you two…” I smile. But it’s true—I haven’t been dating much at all lately. Younger me would be horrified by my priorities, but the work side of my life has taken over everything. Hopefully, when I have the spa up and running, I’ll be able to think about what comes next. Dating. Love…. Maybe they’re right, and I am getting older, because recently, I’ve started to wish I had someone to come home to—sharing laughs and dinners and a new Netflix show.
That’s not to say I don’t still want this relationship to include frequent, mind-blowing sex. Just, you know, sexandgreat conversation.
At the thought, I find myself checking my phone.
“Aha!” Seb crows. “Thereisa woman.”
“No,” I say. “At least, not like that. I’m waiting to hear back from a candidate,” I explain. “The office sent her an official offer letter yesterday, and I figured I’d hear back right away. But… Nothing.”
I frown. I was certain Jenn had a great time at the interview, and I told the recruiter to make it a generous offer. Plus, it felt like we really clicked.
“Playing hard to get?” Seb asks. “Maybe she wants to make you sweat.”
“She’s doesn’t seem like she plays games,” I tell him. The memory of Jenn dick-punching that sleazy guy comes into my mind, and I smile. “She’s a pretty straight-shooter.”
“So maybe you need to sweeten the deal?” Flynn suggests. “Since when do you let a pitch sail by?”
He’s right. I already know, she’s the perfect woman for the job. So what am I waiting for?
I dial Jenn’s number. Voicemail.
“Hey, it’s Austin. I just wanted to check in about the offer we sent over,” I begin. “I hope the package is to your liking, and we can talk more about the size, if you want. I think it’s already pretty impressive, But I can always make it bigger, if that’ll make you happy. I want to make sure you’re satisfied,” I add, “so if there are any extra perks you need, to get you really excited, just let me know. Talk soon, I hope.”
I hang up—and find all four of my friends staring at me.
“Who,” Seb smirks, “are you grilling about the size of your package?”
“You think it’s impressive, huh?” Dash adds, with a shit-eating grin.
“Well, he does want to make sure she’s satisfied,” Charlie points out.
