Page 36 of The Rebel

“He forgot,” Celine said sarcastically. “If we didn’t love you so much, we would think that you don’t care about what we do at all.”

“I care aboutyou,” I said honestly. “So, when do you think you’ll have it?”

“These things can’t be hurried,” Celine said in a softer tone, “but we’ll make it a priority.”

“Thanks. Okay then, I’m heading to the office, unless you need anything else?”

Isabeau beamed at me. “We don’t, but thanks for stopping by.”

“Sure.”

Just as I exited the store, several customers filtered in. Isabeau and Celine definitely had a knack for business. The French Quarter was typically very sleepy this time of day. Most of the shops were empty except theirs.

When I arrived at work, I immediately went to Daisy’s office. HR had given her the one next to me, which was perfect.

She was sitting behind her desk, typing furiously. I had a fantastic view of her long legs. She’d crossed them and was tapping the foot that was in the air while she hummed to herself.

So much for being better at exerting self-control at the office.

On Friday, I hadn’t intended to spend that much time with her. I had gone to the festival with a goal in mind: chat with Gregory, give Daisy things to follow up on, and get out of there.

But once I saw her at the bar, I knew that wouldn’t happen.

“Hello.”

Daisy looked at me. “Good morning, Anthony.”

“Good morning.”

She smiled. “I checked the schedule, so it’s an office day today.”

I nodded. “The festival’s running smoothly, so there’s no need for us to stop by again. The jazz competition starts in two weeks.”

“I saw the list you sent me. I’m already halfway through today’s items.”

“You’re an early riser?”

“Yes. I’ve been here since seven thirty.”

I jerked my head back. “That’s not necessary.”

“I know, but I saw the list last night and was pumped to start working.”

“Daisy.” I walked up to her desk. “That’s not how we do things here. I don’t want you to risk burnout. I always preface my emails by saying that I’m sending at that hour because it’s convenient for me, but I don’t expect anyone to reply until they’ve clocked in.”

“I read that, but I still wanted to get started. The only downside,” she said on a yawn, “is that waking up that early in the morning means I’m ready for a nap now.”

I chuckled. “You and me both.”

“How come?”

I looked away from her, out the window. Somehow, I had to fight my impulse to flirt with her. It seemed even stronger today.

“I volunteered to take Bella to school.”

“Your niece?”

“Yeah. She’s the only one I wake up early for.” I looked back at Daisy.