Page 20 of Damien
Finally, she nods. “When are you thinking?”
Well, this isn’t a no.
“I’m free tonight,” I answer honestly. But I then realize I’d better not come across too strong. “Or any night this week. Whichever works for you. I’m more than willing to work around your schedule.”
Once again, I can visibly see the wheels spinning in her head. Her lips purse as her brows knit, contemplating my offer. Eventually, I’m put out of my misery. “Okay.”
“Okay?” I ask, needing clarification.
“Okay. If you’re serious about tonight, I think that might work best.”
“About time,” Jack grumbles at my side. “You two have been making eyes at each other since the day this poor fella came in.”
“Jack.” Vanessa swats a hand in the air in his direction.
“What?” He shrugs defensively. “I’m just saying what we’re all feeling—aloud. Don’t shoot the messenger.”
I laugh. I can’t help it. He’s hit the nail on the head.
Thankfully, Vanessa does, too, and of course Jack joins—though I’m not sure he’s laughing with us—or at us. Though does it matter?
Once we’ve regained our composure, I ask, “Does seven work for you?”
“I’m sure I can make that work… but there’s something you should know.”
Suddenly, my phone rings and when I look at the number, I know I have to take it.
Reaching into my pocket, I pull out my wallet and reach for a card and enough cash to cover my bill. “Look, I’ve gotta take this. Whatever it is, we can talk about it tonight over dinner. Text me your address, and I’ll pick you up at seven. Wear something you’re comfortable in, and we can decide what you’d like to do when I get there.”
My phone rings for a third time, and I force myself to pick up the call, I keep my eyes on Vanessa as I answer, “Hey, Malik. I’m glad you called. Give me a second.” Putting the phone to my chest, my eyes never leave sight of the stunned woman in front of me. “I’m sorry, this is my boss. I have to take this. Can what you have to say hold until this evening?”
Sighing, she shakes her head as she says, “Yes.”
“I’m usually off around six. Please text me your address, and we’ll work everything out. I can’t wait to see you.”
“Okay.” She nods in agreement. “I’ll text you when I get off my shift.”
I smile and nod in agreement as I walk regretfully out the door of the diner to find out what brought Malik calling this early in the morning, hoping like hell my day hasn’t just turned into a complete shit show.
7
Vanessa
As soon asI finish my shift, instead of texting Damien, I pull up Syd’s contact and call her. If I’m going on a date tonight, I need someone to watch Julia—and let’s be real—I need reinforcements for my nerves.
She picks up on the third ring sounding out of breath. “Hey, Van, what’s up?”
“Uh…” How do I even start? “Are you busy?”
“I just ran about seven miles. I’m actually about two blocks from your house. Everything okay?”
Not wanting to sound pathetic, I offer as I chew on the side of my lip, “Wanna wait for me there? I have something I’d like to run by you.”
“Sure. I’ll just let myself in through the garage if that’s okay. I’m warning you though, I totally reek. How long will you be?”
“I’m just leaving the diner. But if you’d like a shower, I’m sure Vince won’t mind you using his.”
“I’m at the house now. You sure you’re okay? I can tell something’s bothering you.” Syd’s voice fills with concern at the end, almost as if she’s contemplating letting me hang up.
