Page 7 of All Your Lies

TMI

Jenna

Prude. And don’t even think about backing out tonight. If you do, I’ll find you.

Well yeah, she’ll find me. She’s my next-door neighbor, so I couldn’t hide from her, even if I wanted to.

I sense someone staring at me, and as I glance up from my phone, Brad, from yesterday, fills my vision. I smile at him before peering down at my phone as it vibrates with another message.

Jenna

I also took the liberty of purchasing you a dress. It’s sure to get you laid.

Alexa

You being so worried about my sex life is kind of weird.

Jenna

I’m just a concerned friend.

I snort but stop when I hear a throat clear and raise my eyes. Brad is still staring at me while leaning against the counter. In contrast to everyone else’s relaxed attire for business casual Friday, his dark blue suit seems out of place in the office.

“Good afternoon, Mr. Brown,” I say before taking a bite of my forgotten lunch.

“Alexa. Please, call me Brad.”

He’s told me this countless times, but I use his last name to create a barrier between us. A first-name basis will make him believe we’re friends. He’s nice, but doesn’t get the hint I’m not interested.

I give a slight nod while aimlessly pushing my food around on the plate.

“I wanted to talk about yesterday—”

“There’s no need,” I say, not wanting to rehash my panic attack.

“I just didn’t want you to think I was stalking you or anything.”

With a shake of my head, I glance upward at him. “I don’t.”

“That’s good. A few of us are going out for drinks. You should come with us this time. I can pick you up at your place around seven.”

“I have plans already, but thank you for the invite,” I say with a slight smile.

Not once have I gone out with anyone from work. Most keep their distance because they are aware of my identity and my family’s infamous reputation. Though Brad seems to be immune since he has asked multiple times, like a broken record. I don’t have a problem with him, but he’s always given me a weird vibe. Maybe he’s just socially awkward? I can’t fault the guy for that, as I too am socially awkward.

However, I always go with my gut. Trusting outsiders is bad for business.

“Okay. Some other time,” he murmurs before making a quick exit from the lunchroom.

“Sure,” I say to the empty room.

My phone rings at five o’clock on the dot. Jenna can be needy as hell sometimes. I roll my eyes as I answer the phone.

“I barely walked out of work, and I already said I’m going—”

“Going where, Alexandria?”

“Oh, Dad. Hi,” I say as I start my car.