Page 67 of The Kissing Part
“I thought it was a sure thing. Did they say why?”
She grimaces. “They were pissed about the change in schedule with Nathan coming on two weeks later than anticipated.”
Because I’m going to Vancouver.
“Seriously? It’s only two weeks.”
She lifts her palms. “They didn’t feel the end date would work, and they had another company that was also at the top of their list, so they’re going with them.”
I scrub a hand over my face. This is my fault. And the Vancouver job isn’t even a sure thing.
“I screwed up,” I say.
“It’s not your fault.”
“Yes, it is. I let a major client slip away for the potential of a new job when, let’s face it, my dick was doing the thinking.”
She gives me a deadpan look. “Never trust a tiny brain.”
* * *
That night when Shayla shows up at my place, I tell her about losing the DC job over a late dinner of her favorite vegetable stir-fry. I’m always hungry after she cooks. She makes the effort, though, so I keep my mouth shut.
“I’m sorry to hear it,” she says. “Honestly, it sounds like they would’ve been a tough client to work for the way they got upset over such a minor schedule change. You’re probably better off.”
“We needed the business.”
She reaches across the table to hold my hand. “I get that, but don’t worry, I’m sure the Vancouver job will make up for it. Olivia called over, and at the very least, they’d like you to secure equipment to stop the rash of robberies they’re dealing with. They’re open to more if you solve that problem first.”
My shoulders relax. We’re supposed to leave for Vancouver in a little over two weeks. “When did she talk to them?”
“Today. Olivia said you should give the producer a call early tomorrow before they start filming for the day. They’re out there now finishing up a TV movie.” She pulls her phone out and sends me the contact info.
“Thanks, Shayla. You really came through for me.”
“Of course! You can count on me.”
I want to believe her, but with our history, it’s tough. I take her hand and kiss her palm.
She gazes into my eyes with such warmth my heart stutters. She still loves me. It’s right there in her eyes. I need to take a risk.
“I didn’t just invite you to Vancouver for the job, you know,” she says.
“I know.” Part of me always knew, I just didn’t want to risk getting in too deep.
“I don’t want things to end the way they did last time with my job coming between us.” Her voice chokes. She takes a deep breath. “I want a future that’s a win-win for both of us. That’s why I thought getting you work alongside mine was ideal. Truth is, I’d be happy if you wanted to be with me as much as I want to be with you.”
My heart does a funny flip-flop. Her sincerity reaches out and wraps around me like a warm hug. I pull her out of her seat and into my lap, kissing her. If we’re still this happy in Vancouver, maybe we do have a future.
* * *
Shayla
It’s Friday night, and I can’t wait to get back to Clover Park. I’m stretched out across the long backseat of the car. My bodyguard, Zander, is in the front passenger seat with the driver. Olivia came back earlier to take care of a few errands.
Work was hard on my body physically this week with all the fight scenes. I’m looking forward to sleeping in over the weekend and seeing Owen and my friends again.
Olivia showed me pictures of my house’s interior, and it’s really starting to look good with the fresh paint and decorative touches Mackenzie added. One day I’d like to live there again. It’s a good house for a family.
