Page 36 of Love Is an Art
“My love, I see Jain over there,” Marla says. “I’m going to catch up with her. It was nice to see you again, Tessa, and meet you, Zeke.”
Wyatt’s face shuts down as she pulls away.
“Tell her I say hi.” Wyatt kisses her on the cheek and watches her leave. She’s very confident and clearly does not view our past relationship as a threat. Not that she should.
But Wyatt is still staring at her disappearing back, frowning.
“Shouldn’t you catch up with Jain too?” I ask.Please leave before you reveal my job.
“They’ll want some girl talk time.” Wyatt shakes his head and focuses on me, his easy smile returning. “Was thatDalmatiansyour effort?”
“With Zeke,” I say.
“That was pretty good,” Wyatt says. “Better than your usual attempts.” Wyatt was my date at the law firm painting event.
Zeke starts. “That’s a little harsh.”
“Have you seen her previous paintings?” Wyatt asks.
“Yes,” Zeke says.
“Really?” Wyatt’s brow creases. “You’ve been dating for a while, then?”
“This is our first date,” I say.
Wyatt smiles again and steps closer to me. “It’s not her forte, but she can’t be good at everything.” He pats my shoulder.
Zeke straightens and looks at Wyatt like he can’t believe Wyatt’s saying I stink at my career.
Oh no. How slow is this line to pay for our paintings? What is that couple up there doing? It seems the credit card machine isn’t working.
“I’ve improved since then,” I say. “How’s your work going lately?”
“Keeping me out of trouble.” Wyatt looks at Zeke. “What do you do?”
“I work for Capital Management.”
We move up a space. Only three more people in front of us.
“Then you probably work a lot too?” Wyatt asks. “You guys might have a chance, then. Tessa works all the time.”
“I work a fair amount too. I’m grateful she made the time.” Zeke puts his arm around me. The warmth of his arm around me and his shoulder next to mine makes me stand a little taller.
Wyatt stares at Zeke’s hand, rubbing my upper arm. “I think that’s my cue to leave. It was good talking to you both. I’m in real estate, so if you’re ever looking for commercial or residential real estate, ask Tessa for my details,” Wyatt says. “Tell Miranda I said congratulations. And thanks for the donation.”
He finally leaves.
“Wow, your ex was harsh,” Zeke says.
“He was just being honest,” I say. “I do need to improve.”
Zeke tries to school his face as if my painting isn’t terrible.
Poor guy.
There’s another holdup at the checkout table. They can’t find the painting. Someone forgot to label a painting after they bubble-wrapped it.
“Tessa!”
