Page 94 of The Manny

“I see. Well, Percy is here now.” I grimaced. “They’ll be glued to each other.”

“Oh. I guess that’s true.” His blank gaze shifted to Gus. “Hello. I don’t believe we’ve met, I’m Jack.”

Gus eyed Jack. “Of Jack’s Automotive?”

“That’s right.”

“I’m Gus.” He held out his hand. “You’re a popular guy. I think everyone in town is here today.”

Jack shook Gus’ hand. “I’m flattered so many people showed up.”

Gus gave a humorless laugh. “I’ll bet. I hope you’re having them give you their contact info, so you can advertise to them?”

Frowning, Jack said, “No. This is just to thank people for supporting me all these years.”

Looking surprised, Gus said, “But that’s a missed opportunity to grab more customers.”

“I have plenty of business.”

“Not everybody has ulterior motives for being nice,” I said pointedly.

Gus laughed. “If you say so.”

“How do you two know each other?” Jack asked.

“Thomas worked for me and my wife.” Gus waved toward the stroller. “He watched my son Sammy.”

“I see.”

“It was a shorter assignment.” I wasn’t sure why I added that. Was that really relevant?

“Not that short.” Gus gave a smirk. “I had the pleasure of Thomas’… er… company… for a whole month.”

I scowled at his suggestive tone.

“Is that right?” Jack’s voice was flat.

“Yes. My wife travels constantly for work. It was such a comfort having Thomas living in my home. Mostly it was just the two of us watching over Sammy. We got… close… which I suppose just naturally happens when you live together.”

Jack frowned. “I suppose so.”

Irritation rippled through me. Gus was implying we’d been extremely close, which was a complete lie. I’d loathed him by the time I’d finally left his home.

Gus narrowed his eyes. “So… Thomas is working for you now?”

“Yes.” Jack’s tone was curt. “Temporarily.”

I wrinkled my brow. “Well, it’s a long-term assignment though.”

Jack murmured, “I guess.”

“Ahhh…. you’re a lucky guy.” Gus laughed. “Thomas is extremely popular with his clients for a reason. Are you enjoying how… hands-on… he is, Jack?”

My face got warmer at the innuendo in his voice. “I’m popular because I love the kids I take care of. I’ll do anything for them.”

Twisting his lips, Gus said, “Absolutelyanything.”

Jack grunted.

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