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“No, there’s nothing like that in place. I just”—she frowns—“I like to have clear boundaries.”
My lonely heart isn’t willing to let it go at that, especially not after that kiss. “Okay, I’ll respect your no-dating policy, but I won't apologise for kissing you because it was fucking amazing."
"Max, I—"
"My mum always says you can solve anything over a cup of tea and a piece of cake. I know a great place. How about I take you there, and we can trash talk Gerald."
I can see the war of indecision raging in her eyes as she bites her bottom lip. Why is she so determined to separate her work and social time? A workplace love affair gone wrong? Did some fucker break her heart?
Finally, Eva gives me a smile that makes the blood in my veins pump hard and fast. “There's nothing I love more than cake and trash talk.”
Chapter6
Eva
I should've said no.Getting involved with Max, a colleague, won't lead anywhere good. I should know that from Mum's experience.
But I can't deny that it feelsgoodto spend time with Max outside of Sutherland’s. It's natural and comfortable. I notice things about him that aren’t so evident when we’re busy working. Like how he carries himself, so strong, sure, and confident.
And that kiss. Oh, my God, that kiss. The man is an incredible kisser, and I can't help but imagine his mouth and tongue working their magic on other parts of my body.
That thought makes me squeeze my thighs together as I stroll along beside Max, my arm linked with his. I allow myself to imagine for a moment what it would be like to be this—a couple. Not co-workers, but two people who met under other circumstances and clicked. I thought that kind of thing only happened in books and films, but Max makes me believe otherwise.
He’s kind and chivalrous and protective. I saw his thunderous expression when a difficult customer snapped at me earlier today. How he made a beeline for me, standing close, ready to jump in and protect me as the irate customer became more and more agitated, shouting loudly at me.
Even now, I notice how he walks closest to the road, keeping me on his left side, away from the traffic. He steers me carefully through the crowd, glaring at a man who barrels into my shoulder as we enter a busy street market.
Finally, we arrive at a familiar cafe in Covent Garden. "Caramel y Chocolat? It's only been open a few months, but this is my favourite place! I love it here. Amazing food, top-tier coffee, and the most delectable pastries I've ever tasted," I exclaim, turning to face Max. "But it's impossible to get a table," I add, indicating the packed courtyard and seating area inside.
Max grins. "Don't worry. They know me well here."
As if on cue, a woman in her early thirties with auburn hair emerges from inside. She's wearing the black trousers and bright yellow shirt that make up the uniform ofCaramel y Chocolat.
"Max!" she exclaims, her face breaking into a wide smile. "Didn't expect to see you here. How's the, uh, new job?" she asks with an exaggerated wink.
"Good, thanks, Jess. This is Eva, my colleague from Sutherland's," he says, giving her a pointed stare.
"Oh. Oh, of course." Jess nods, blushing lightly as her gaze slides to me. "Good to meet you, Eva."
"You too, Jess." I smile and dip my head in acknowledgement.
Jess and Max are acting strangely. Are they involved? The thought sends a dagger of jealousy slicing into my stomach. Shit. I'm the one who enforced the no-dating rule, so I have no right to feel possessive over Max.
But you do, nonetheless. Especially after that kiss.
"Jess is the manager," Max explains, glancing at me." I was hoping you could find us a table," he adds, turning back to Jess with a hopeful smile.
"You're in luck, so long as you don't mind being tucked away in the corner." Jess points to a small table in the courtyard next to an ivy-covered trellis.
"Oh, that's perfect, thank you." I smile.
"You're welcome. Go sit, and someone will be out to take your order," Jess says brightly. She gives Max an almost questioning look before disappearing back inside.
Max leads me to the table and pulls out my chair. "M'lady."
"Thank you." I grin. The ivy-covered trellis shields us from the other customers, and it's like being in our own little world. "Get you, rubbing shoulders with the management," I tease as he sits opposite me.
He looks guilty for a split second before it's quickly erased. "Jess and I met at university. She has a business degree in food and management."
