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Emmett rubbed my shoulder. “It’s okay. I know it’s probably a big step for you to tell me.”
I gave a nod of agreement. “I don’t particularly want to tell him about you yet. It’s nothing personal, but I want to be sure about things before he meets you.”
“I get that. I understand you wanting to protect him. I wish there were more good parents like you in the world. Maybe then charities like this one wouldn’t need to exist. As much as I love my job, I’d love it more if every kid had a safe home.” Emmett lowered his gaze self-consciously. “I guess it’s a little idealistic.”
I caught his gaze again and smiled kindly. “It’s a good ideal to have.”
“Would you like a drink or something to eat? There are appetizers if you like.”
“Yes to both, thank you.”
I felt Emmett’s hand on my back as we went to the bar. I enjoyed the way he subconsciously ran it up and down without even realising it. He ordered a beer and I indulged in a glass of red wine.
“So, it’s been a week since I saw you last,” I said.
“So, it has.”
“How was work?”
Emmett nodded as we perused the table of food. “It was challenging. But hey, who doesn’t like a challenge?”
I kept my gaze averted. “When daily living is a constant challenge, such things tend to lose their sparkle.”
“I never asked you what you do for work?” Emmett asked after a moment.
“I work way too hard at a small supermarket. It’s crappy, but it pays the bills.”
“If you think it’s crappy then why don’t you work somewhere else?”
“You mean somewhere else that’s just as crappy?”
“Or find something you love doing and make a career out of it. Follow your dreams.”
It turned out Emmett’s idealism was bloody annoying.
“Unfortunately, it’s not all about me. I have a small child to look after. His needs come before everything else.”
“You’re right. I guess even though I work with these kids, sometimes I don’t fully understand the sacrifices parents have to make. I don’t have kids of my own. I apologise.”
“Well, I’m kid-free tonight, so I can be selfish for once.” I lifted my glass of wine and took a few sips.
Emmett chuckled.
An announcer stepped onto the stage and I saw a line of women behind him.
“What kind of auction is this, exactly?” I whispered to Emmett as the first woman stepped into the spotlight.
“Folks offer up an amount they’re willing to donate toCorporate Cares, and the winning bidder gets to take the woman on a date.”
I frowned. “Do you intend on bidding?”
“No. Don’t worry, I already have the best date in the place.” Emmett bent down and kissed my cheek.
We watched the proceedings as women were auctioned off for dates.
Emmett began to laugh all of a sudden. “Oh, man! I can’t believe they talked Rylee into being one of the auction prizes.”
“Who’s Rylee?”
