Page 69 of Just Another Silly Love Song

The more I spent time with her yesterday, the more beautiful she became, but she just moved up to another level.

Lori laughed and hugged Debbie, our receptionist, and then Chris, the sales manager.

I had yet to receive a hug from her, not that I wanted one.

Okay, I was lying.

I wanted one.

Dan leaned in toward my face. “You’re staring.”

He was right, but he didn’t need to know that. “I’m just trying to get her attention so we can chat about the show.”

Dan laughed. “Yeah, right.”

Finally, Lori glanced in my direction and I waved.

Why did I feel like a kid at school trying to get the attention of the most popular girl?

Then she started walking in our direction and I tried not to watch her, but it was useless.

“Hey, guys.”

Lori flashed a smile and I swear I heard something thump in my chest again.

“Hey.” I tried to sound casual, but I doubt I succeeded.

“Hi, Lori.” Dan pointed to the bar nearby. “Grab yourself a drink over there. There’s no formal dinner this evening, but waiters will be coming around passing appetizers for the first two hours, so eat up. There will be a dessert bar later, loaded with plenty of sweets including cupcakes, which I hear you’re a fan of.”

Lori glanced at me. “You’ve been talking about me, have you?”

I winked. “How could we not?”

What an idiot. Why did I say that?

Dan chuckled. “I need to go check in with the catering director. I’ll see you two later.” He walked away, leaving Lori and me alone, both of us in silence, me rocking back and forth, heels, toes, heels, toes, like an idiot.

I opened my mouth and then closed it.

“What?” Lori said.

“Nothing. What?”

“You were going to say something, but then changed your mind.”

I hesitated. “That’s because I was going to compliment you on something, but then thought that it might not be appropriate, so I changed my mind.” I shrugged. “I don’t want to have HR breathing down my neck.”’

“A compliment?”

I nodded.

“Girls love compliments, you know. Especially when they’re sincere and don’t come with any ulterior motives. And just so you know, it would be my word against yours if it ever goes to court.” She laughed.

I nodded again, deciding to just say it. “You look stunning.”

Lori glanced away for a quick moment, her cheeks slightly flushing. “Thank you.” She glanced down at my shoes and gave me the once-over, arriving at my face where we locked gazes. “Likewise, Dr. Tough Love.”

I chuckled, most likely from nerves. “You’re not going to call me that all night, are you?”