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“Oh?” Flora says.
I have nothing to say. No excuse or explanation that won’t get me fired. But I stand tall and pretend that I’m not dying inside.
“I’m joking, Mum,” he says casually. “We were discussing the building work.”
I’ll take that roof falling on my head now.
When they turn back to the food, Casper smirks again. “You’re welcome.”
I’m welcome. Is he kidding?
Taking a few deep breaths and sucking in enough oxygen to make me dizzy, I move away from him.
Next time I’m not doing anything without Reggie present. It’s too risky. Casper knows all the right buttons to press, and he seems to press them all at once. I get sucked into his bullshit every time.
I refocus because Icannotafford to mess this up.
For the rest of the tasting, I’m the perfect event planner, and Casper ispissed. He watches me, trying to get my attention with that icy stare, but I pretend he’s not even here. It’s a little victory that leaves me feeling like a goddess.
When we’re done, Flora, Casper, and I walk out of the castle together.
“Ainsley, thank you for this afternoon,” Flora says. “Sorry it was such short notice, but I won’t be available for the next few weeks.”
“That’s fine, you’re welcome. I’m so pleased you have a menu you love.”
“I do. Anyway, I’d better dash. I have back-to-back meetings and a working dinner. Make sure she gets home safely, Casper.”
I’m about to open my mouth to tell her that I’m taking the bus when Casper says, “I will do. My car is this way, Ainsley.”
He will not.
Flora smiles, expecting us both to head in the direction of his car, which must be around the side of the castle. Flora parked right out front.
To save us from any questions, I follow him.
“Don’t worry, when she’s gone, I’ll turn back and start walking,” I tell him.
He glances at me out of the corner of his eye. “What?”
“You know, when she can’t see, I’ll head back to the main road for the bus.”
“Get in the fucking car.”
My back stiffens. “Since you asked so nicely.” I roll my eyes and turn around when I hear Flora’s car driving over the gravelly driveway. “See you never.”
His hand circles my wrist. It’s the second time in two days he’s touched me. I wonder if that’s grounds for a restraining order.
“What?” I say, tugging my hand loose and ignoring my ricocheting heart.
“Get in the car.”
“Your mum knows I’m with you.”
He stifles his amusement. “I’m not taking you into the woods to kill you.”
“Then, what are you doing?”
“I’m giving you a lift home.”
