Page 51 of Embracing James

“You do,” Paul said. “I can leave while the meeting’s taking place and be back by the time you’re done.”

James smiled. “How about another one of those sub sandwiches? Whatever you got the last time works.”

“Sure.” He’d do whatever James wanted. “I’ll stop by the house and check on Doob, too.”

“I’d like that.” James kissed him. “Thank you.”

“Welcome.”

“Still love me? Despite everything crazy happening?”

“Sure do.” Without a doubt. He’d fallen hard and fast for James. No one else would fit. He’d found the missing piece in his life. His James.

James scooted forward in his chair and kissed Paul once more. “I need to get out there. Mrs. Cernan should be coming in shortly. I didn’t explain to her what happened, so she’ll expect me to be ready for her.”

“She’s the lady who has her hair dyed bright red, isn’t she?”

“The same.” He hated coloring her hair because it made his hands all red, but she liked the way her hair looked when he finished and she tipped well, so he couldn’t argue. Hopefully his gloves would stay intact and he wouldn’t have to worry about staining his hands.

“I’ll be around and once the lady shows up from the JVS, I’ll head out to get lunch and check on the dog.” Paul stood. He held his hands out to James and helped him to his feet.

“Thank you.” He liked having a partner. He’d come to that conclusion so many times, but it never got old. Paul had become the partner and lover he never knew he needed. He walked with Paul to the door. Soon he’d be able to tell him he loved him. He’d explain he wanted to merge households and stop living in the Annex. He liked his apartment, but he’d rather be with Paul. The condo felt like home.

Paul opened the door and Mrs. Cernan stood in the reception area. She smiled as James strode over to her.

“Hello.” She brightened. “I didn’t see you at your chair and thought you’d gone home sick.”

“Nope.” He gestured to her. “Would you like a cup of tea or coffee? I need to check the schedule and pull the supplies out for you, so it’ll be a moment.”

“I’d love a coffee. Do you have those almond roast pods?” she asked.

“The ones with the hint of almond? Or the creamer?” He had both. “Feel free to make a cup. The pods are all stocked and you know where the creamer is.”

“I do.” She clapped him on the shoulder. “You’re worth waiting for.” She walked past him to the coffee maker.

“She’s right.” Paul picked up his broom. “Get to work.” He winked.

“I will.” James checked the appointment book on his tablet, then gathered the supplies needed for her appointment. Finally, something normal. He could cut, style and dye with the best of them. While he prepped his station for his appointment, he stole glances at Lance, Ky, Casey and especially Paul. He had a great crew around him. They hadn’t freaked out under pressure and helped when he needed them. Maybe having a staff that wasn’t so revolving was a good thing after all.

He managed to get through Mrs. Cernan’s appointment and had her back to her flame red look just as Ms. Namey walked into the salon. Talk about cutting it close. He turned Mrs. Cernan around to admire her coif.

“Good?” He stood behind her. “The red does bring out the blue of your eyes.”

“You’re sweet-talking me,” she said. “But I appreciate it. I also love what you’ve done. You always make me beautiful.” She left the chair, then pressed cash into his hand. “I’ll make my next appointment with Casey. Thank you. I can’t wait to show the girls.”

“You’ll be the highlight of the gathering, doll.” He didn’t look at the money she’d given him. Instead, he focused on her. “Thank you and I look forward to your next appointment. I hope you’ll still entrust me with your style and color.”

“Of course. You’re the only one I trust with my hair.” She paid the bill, then left the salon.

James pocketed the money, then cleaned up his station. Ms. Namey joined him at his styling chair. “Hi,” he said. “I got behind this morning. I’ll be ready in a moment.”

“No rush.” She folded her hands on the top of the chair. “I heard it’s been interesting.”

“Casey filled you in?” He wiped down his station. “I’m sorry for that. Not for her telling you, if she did, but the commotion.”

“I’ve had my share of intrusions. This incident wasn’t great, but it’s not the end of the world,” Ms. Namey said. “I trust it won’t be happening again?”

“Not if I can help it.” He wiped his hands, then tossed the towel into the bin. “Would you like to talk in my office?”

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