Page 61 of The Manny

“No.” He gave a nervous laugh. “I feel like complicating my life.”

Excitement rippled through me. “Is that right?”

“If you want to, yeah. Let’s complicate the shit out of things, Jack,” He whispered. “What do you say?”

“I don’t think I have it in me to say no.”

“You only live once, right?”

It was on the tip of my tongue to ask if taking it further was okay because of Aiden, then changed my mind.

Fuck Aiden.

If that idiot was too stupid to officially lay claim to Thomas, he had no right to object to whatever Thomas did with me. Thomas said they were just friends, so I’d go with that.

When I didn’t immediately respond, Thomas wrinkled his brow. “I mean, we don’t have to. If you’re not interested.”

“Oh, I’m interested,” I said softly.

Relief fluttered through his blue eyes. “You scared me for a second there.”

“Sorry. I was just thinking.” I smiled. “Will it reassure you if I tell you I don’t think I’ve ever looked forward to coming home for dinner more?”

“Yes. I feel much better.” He laughed.

I glanced at my watch and winced. “I really am late. I have to go.”

“Sure. See you later, Jack.” He bit his bottom lip.

I blew out a shaky breath. “Have a good day.” I opened the door and closed it behind me without looking back. I was afraid I’d never make it to work if I did.

****

Knowing what awaited me later tonight, of course the day seemed to drag on endlessly. I’d just hung up with one of my suppliers, when there was a knock on the door of my office. “Come in,” I called out.

Brody stuck his head in the door. “Hey, boss.”

“What’s up?” I leaned back in my chair.

“I was about to head out for the day, but wanted to fill you in on things.”

“Okay, shoot.”

“Mrs. Grant is picking up her car tomorrow instead of tonight.”

“That’s fine.”

He hesitated. “Um… also… Ron doesn’t have the spark plugs he needs for the Chevrolet he’s working on. They sent the wrong ones.” He gritted his teeth, looking like he was bracing himself.

“Are you serious?”

“I’m afraid so.”

“Damn.” I sighed. “The guy wanted his car back today. He probably won’t be happy.”

Surprise shifted over his features. “That’s it?”

“What do you mean?”

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