Page 49 of Take My Name

“But if not, we’ll get shitfaced at the bar and find you a freak in the sheets.”

“Why does she have to be?—”

“Hey, boss…”

My head falls at Ricky in the doorway, grinning like a fool.

He’s Nicky’s younger brother. And yes, their names rhyme.

“We’ll chat later,” I tell Bodie.

He stands but rests his palms on my desk, leaning closer and lowering his voice. “Since I promised to keep this between us, does that mean I get updates during the week?” He waggles his brows. “So I can prepare.”

“Prepare for what?”

“Champagne if we’re celebratin’ or some Mad Dogs to drown your sorrows. Or if you’re feelin’ really down, Four Lokos.”

I snort because there’s no way I’m drinking that shit. “Sure, I’ll text ya.”

Once he leaves, Ricky enters and plops down in front of me.

“Don’t tell me you got married, too?”

After dealing with Ricky and going through emails, I check in with Bodie and see where I can help. I’m trying to stay focused instead of thinking about Maisie, but it’s nearly impossible.

Our picnic yesterday went so well, I’m halfway worried I won’t be able to top it. Although that’s not the point of spending this week with her, but since I have to be here during the day and she’s spending time with her parents or working, we’ll only get a few hours in the evening. And I want them to be memorable.

Warren

Wanna go for an evening swim tonight?

It’s nothing major, but not being able to sleep is catching up to me. I’d rather do something low-key tonight since I have other late-night activities planned this week. We used to swim under the waterfall all the time when we were younger, but I haven’t been able to go there since the last time we went together.

It’ll also give me the opportunity to tell her about Angela since I didn’t want to do that in a public space.

Maisie

I didn’t pack a bathing suit.

Warren

That’s never stopped you before.

Maisie

Warren! I’m not going skinny-dipping again…

I laugh, unable to hold back the rush of emotions hitting me at her remembering the one and only time we did was the night I proposed.

Warren

You have until 7 to get one. Bring extra clothes to change into after. I made your favorite dessert.

Maisie

You bake too?

Warren