Page 49 of Just Let Go

“It’s a carnival, for the twelfth time, and I hope not.”

He pulled his phone out of his back pocket and opened his e-mail. “Think I am, chief. You’re going to have to put me to work.”

She groaned. “What am I going to do with you tagging along all day?”

He shrugged. “We could start with breakfast.”

“No.”

“Why not?”

She frowned. “I’m meeting my friends for breakfast.”

“Let me come along. I promise I’ll be polite.”

She eyed him. “No. I have to go. I’m going to be late.”

“Suit yourself. I’ll see you at nine, boss.”

She came out from behind the counter and started for the door, but stopped abruptly and turned around. “You really don’t remember anything else about last night?”

Grady shook his head. “Do you want to tell me something I’m forgetting?”

Her eyes widened and she shook her head—quickly, like a guilty child. “I gotta go.”

“Do you mind if I take a quick shower?” he called out as she reached the door.

“Whatever!” She didn’t turn around, and seconds later, she was gone, leaving him wondering exactly what it was he’d forgotten about last night.

Quinn raced down the stairs and out onto the street. He didn’t remember that he’d kissed her. That was a good thing. That was a great thing. Now she could just pretend it had never happened, because in his mind, it never had.

So why did she feel that slight twinge of disappointment?

Really, he was doing her a favor not remembering. It would be so awkward to navigate that one.

Still, how was she supposed to spend the day working alongsidethis man? Because as much as she wished she didn’t, shedidremember that kiss.

She clomped her way over to Hazel’s and found Hailey and Lucy already sitting in their usual booth. Lucy’s eyes lit up when she spotted Quinn. Or maybe that was just how Lucy’s eyes always looked—bright and expectant, as if something good were bound to happen at any moment.

How did she always stay so positive? Was it an act?

Lucy tossed her long auburn hair away from her shoulder and scooted over.

“Sit by me today.”

Sometimes it was like they were still in junior high school. Quinn slid in next to her.

Hailey pulled her phone out and looked at the screen. “Sorry, Jack wasn’t feeling great this morning, so I’m trying to pay extra attention in case the school calls.”

The image of Hailey’s little boy popped in Quinn’s mind. “How is Jack?”

“Don’t change the subject,” Lucy said.

“There’s a subject?”

“You’re late.” Hailey propped her chin up with her fist and stared at her.

“I know. I’m sorry.”

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