Page 56

Ruby stands in front of my desk making pleading eyes. “Think this through, girlfriend. You have so much to live for. You’re just pissed.”

I cover the receiver with my hand. “I’m interested to know why everyone thinks I should go out with him. Gray included.”

Ralph is talking when I come back to the line. “…up around eight?”

“Sorry, you want to pick me up at eight? Would seven be okay?”

“Sure!” His voice sounds like it did in high school—a sudden tenor. “I can pick you up at your house?”

“I think I’d rather meet you at the restaurant. Would that work?”

“Of course. I’ll see you at the Watermark at seven.”

“The Watermark at seven. See you then.”

We disconnect the call, and Ruby closes her eyes. “This is a terrible idea!”

“Stop being so negative. Dating is about meeting other people, trying them on to see if they fit.” I grab my mouse and pull up my schedule for the day. “You of all people should know that, as many dates as you go on.”

“Don’t slut-shame me. You’re going out with a guy for the first time in almost two years, and it’s with Ralph the almond king.”

“At least the Watermark is a nice place.” I lift my chin in defiance. “I’m keeping my mind open. I’m open to the universe!”

“Just keep your knees closed. And your lips.”

“My first appointment is here.”

The Jag is parked in the lot when I arrive to pick it up at the garage. I see Gray and Billy inside, standing around the worktable. I assume they’re finished for the day. A quick scan tells me Leslie isn’t back.

“It’s really good,” Gray is saying. I can’t see what they’re looking at. “You should try selling them online or something. Maybe Dotty can help you.”

“Maybe I can make some money. Get a hot babe to bring me breakfast too?”

“I still haven’t figured out how to make that happen. Or to make it stop.”

He’s joking, but their conversation about Leslie pisses me off.

“Is my car ready?” I interrupt using my very best I don’t give a shit about you tone.

They both straighten, and Gray’s eyes sweep me from head to toe. I hate that my body responds every time he does that.

“Yes, ma’am.” Billy hustles over to the key rack. “I changed the brake pads and checked the lines. They look good to me.”

“Thank you.” I take the keys from the guy’s hand. “How much do I owe you?”

Sliding my purse off my arm, I do my best to stay calm when Gray closes the space between us.

“We still have more work to do.” His low voice makes my stomach clench. “Just wait and we can settle up when it’s done.”

“I don’t like running up a big bill.” My voice is soft. “It could end up more than I can afford.”

“I’m looking out for you.”

Don’t look in his eyes. Don’t look in his eyes…

I look, and it’s a lightning strike straight to my core. “I still like to know what I’m getting into.”

“I know.” He smiles, and I turn my back, ready to leave this place.