Page 230 of Love in Riverbend
“Beth and I have been dating for two months. She’s coming down with something, and she suggested I ask you.”
“Why would she do that?”
“Because she knows we’re over as a couple. You know, you’re not a threat.”
I can’t help but laugh. “That has to be one of the worst pickup lines ever. I’m not sure why everyone thinks I’m the one to help with favors, but news flash, I’m not. I can’t possibly go with you to the dinner. I’m already attending with one of the applicants.”
“You are?”
I wasn’t a few minutes ago, but after being told I’m not a threat, hell yes. “I am, and I need to get ready—you know, in a nonthreatening way. See you tonight, Bryce.”
As he walks away, I sit back in my chair, enjoying the energy flowing through my circulation. Turning Bryce down is just the kick I need. And being told I’m not a threat is the incentive I needed to stop feeling sorry for myself.
I can be a threat.
When it comes to Bryce, I’m not interested enough not to be a threat.
Quickly, I send Devan a text message.
* * *
“I’ve had a change of plans. I’ll drive down to Riverbend on Saturday. See you then.”
* * *
Now, I need to hurry.
Chapter 13
Ricky
I remind myself that working for Parker and Stevens has been my goal for years. When I learned Marilyn had an internship there, I was damn impressed. I’d already done my research and knew what a prestigious firm it was. Making it down to the final group of applicants for…they haven’t told us…however many positions, is an accomplishment.
Then why, as I stand in front of the bathroom mirror, feeling the stiffness of the new shirt and working to create the perfect knot in the new tie, aren’t I excited about my opportunity?
Kyla stands in the open doorway. “You look good, Rich.”
“Do you want to go to a dinner with me?”
She looks down at the tight pants and blouse she’s wearing—professional from the waist up for her televisits with her patients. “I’m afraid I’d need more notice. And I’m even more certain that I’m not your first choice.”
“Seeing as I only met you this morning…” I don’t finish the sentence.
“My landlord said the water heater should be fixed by Monday. I’ll be out of your way after that.”
Exhaling, I smooth the tie and button one button of my suit coat. “You’re not in my way. Max is the one with the revolving door.” I turn to Kyla with wide eyes. “Sorry if you’re not supposed to know that.”
She laughs. “I know that. It’s why I brought my own sheets for his bed.”
Since Max is at work, Kyla and I are alone in the apartment. To be honest, it’s less weird to be with his sister than with one of his many girlfriends. “How did you two turn out so different?”
She crosses her arms over her chest and leans against the doorjamb. “Do you want the sister’s answer or the psychotherapist’s answer?”
“Are they different?”
“Of course. A sister sees things through a particular lens. Max is my little brother. Do I wish he had my drive? I do. We’ve been different since we were kids. When we were very young, he followed me everywhere I went. As we grew up, he started finding his own way. Our parents were pretty hands-off. When they finally started to notice him, they couldn’t understand why he didn’t strive for more.”
“He’s content,” I say. “Sometimes too content.”
