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"Why are you so against them?" I was genuinely curious.
"It's not that I'm against them, I just don't do them. Never have. Part of it was timing, but I can't blame everything on that. I know how to make time for things that are important to me. Marriage just never seemed like a prize, especially after my parents’ divorced."
That would leave scars, I supposed. “Are you on good terms with them?"
"Yes. Very. I’ve got a surprise for them.”
"Oh, what is it?" I asked. “I mean, if you don’t mind me asking.” Really, why should he tell me anything?
"In the divorce, they had to sell the store they both worked so hard to establish, and I’ve got the chance to buy it back."
"Oh, wow. That's amazing," I exclaimed. "Truly." That really was a big gesture. It was endearing. Kind of like me with the inn in a different sort of way.
"That's something you and I have in common," he said. "Roots are important to both of us."
"Yes, they are." It warmed my heart that he felt the same way.
"I bet we have a lot more in common than we think."
Hm, his tone had shifted lightly. It wasjusta little bit flirty.
"I agree. We're both great dancers. You completely surprised me. I never thought a grump could—”
"A what?"
I laughed at his response. "I mean, you were when I met you. I still think that's the most accurate description of you. But those moves, huh? I never could resist a good dancer."
"You go out dancing often?" His voice changed yet again. It had an edge to it I didn't recognize.
"Sometimes," I said.
"Alone?" That almost sounded like a growl.
"I feel like we slid off topic. We were talking about my interview. I don't want to be rude, but I really do think that people might put two and two together if they see you greeting me or something."
"You're right about that. IpromiseI won't show up before your interview."
"Thanks."
"So I'm wishing you the best of luck now."
"Thank you," I said. "And have a great evening."
"You too."
I was expecting to feel relieved that he’d agreed not to show up at the interview. But quite the contrary, I was disappointed.
Chapter Nine
Hannah
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On Thursday morning, I arrived at Sterling Investments at eight o'clock. My first interview began at eight fifteen, and I wanted to have enough time to check in. I was having three rounds of interviews, as well as a practical case study test.
Years ago, Sterling Investments had been on my list of employers to apply to, but I ended up interning for one of their competitors, and then I stayed there.
The reception area was straightforward enough. A helpful assistant gave me a visitor badge and told me which elevator to use and which floor to exit on.