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“And who makes up these rules?”
“We do. Best friends know what’s best for the other.”
His confident smile crept higher and higher. He leaned forward, forcing my gaze to his. “So you’re saying your best friend thinks I’m good for you?”
“No. I’m saying my best friend has one coming her way.”
“Don’t be upset. Maybe one day you’ll thank her.”
His eyes crinkled with a smile. He was enjoying this too much.
“When are you getting your biopsy results?” I asked.
“The doctor said next week.”
“That’s good. And how is Kensi feeling?”
“She’s stable, but we’re still waiting for something solid.”
I was waiting for an answer from Dr. Hippo as well. He could call with the results from my liver tissue match any day now, and the sooner he called, the better. I had two weeks off, and Mrs. Brewers was on standby for babysitting. Thank God for babysitters who lived across the street and ones who took kids on short notice. When Mrs. Brewers had told me she was sick today, I was ready to cancel, but Allie dropped Foxy off with Tristan’s sister. If James had a clue his little cousin was watching his son, he’d flip. My window to tell James about Foxy was closing. I had to turn this date around.
“Allie and Tristan work well together.”
“They’re a good fit, but I’m glad they gave us a moment. It’s personal.”
My heart dropped into my stomach and my throat sealed as I prepared for the bomb to drop. Oh God, did he know?
“Okay?”
“How would you feel about working so close to me?”
I cleared my throat. “I believe it’s a great opportunity. Silver Securities has an excellent reputation.”
“You’re avoiding my question.”
His eyebrow lifted. The subtle shift of confidence on his face sent my heart out of synch again.
“Why don’t you answer the same question? How would you feel about working with me?”
He angled his body closer to mine. “I let you get away from me last time, and I’m not doing it again.”
My body heated before going numb. Why wouldn’t I give this a try when his intention was so clear? But how could I start a relationship with a lie? A big lie? The decision would be easier if James knew the truth.
“I don’t know, James. I have to think about it.” Sweat dripped down my hands and I rubbed down my pants to dry them.
“What’s there to think about? Flexible schedule, full benefits, and an increase in salary. We’re a family-oriented company, so you’d have all the time you need for Ozzy. In fact, we’re also setting up childcare at work, so your son would be a couple of floors away from you.”
“I can’t deny your offer sounds tempting, James.”
“Yet not tempting enough. What can I do to sway your decision?”
“It’s not you.” Of course it was. “I have a lot going on right now and wouldn’t want to take on anything I couldn’t handle. And I’m handling a lot. I’m afraid I wouldn’t be a good hire. We both know the work requires full attention, which has been difficult.”
He shifted closer. “I don’t need an answer right now. The offer’s on the table. Think about it. No pressure.”
Air whizzed out of my lungs.
No pressure.
