He chuckles.
“Don’t you dare say it,” I growl.
He clamps his mouth shut as we straighten up. “Don’t worry I’ll clean you up in the shower tonight before I put you to bed properly.” From others, I dated that would’ve been an euphemism. With Shayne, it’s a matter of fact. I’ve never had a man put a loving on me so good I can do little more than close my eyes and let sleep take me until now.
The knock on the door makes me jump at the sink. I quickly wash my hands and open the window above the sink.
“Use an air freshener, please.”
Laughing, he kneels and pulls out the fresh linen spray. The clean scent follows me out into the living room to the front door. I can’t deny I’m infinitely more relaxed. I open the door, and my father’s eyes widen as he takes in my black halter-style corset.
“Hey, Dad, come on in.”
He steps inside and takes in my apartment. “I haven’t been here in a long time.”
“No, you haven’t.”
He glances around. “It looks different.”
I bet it does. I didn’t Dad proof the house.
Shayne clears his throat behind me.
“Is this a work meeting?” Dad asks slowly. His lips turn down at the corners and his eyes darken as he stands up straight, on the offense.
“No, Dad. This is my boyfriend, Shayne.” I hold my breath, and wait for the fall out.
His nostrils flare. “You’re dating your employee?”
“I’m not his boss, Dad. Yes, I trained him, but he’s the one assisting me now.”
“Of all the people you could date, you choose one you work with?” he asks. His lips curl up in disgust and his eyes shine with disapproval.
“We both know that’s not how matters of the heart work.” I want him to see past his rigid rules.
He scoffs. “Is this why you called me here? Because I don’t see what this has to do with hiring new employees.”
“It doesn’t. He happened to be here when Ellis called to say you might stop by. I’m too old to be hiding my relationships from you.” I shift my weight. His quick dismissal stings.
“You know I don’t approve of mixing business with pleasure. Working with family is tricky enough.” He shakes his head.
“I know, Dad. But Shayne is worth the risk.”
“For your sake, I hope you’re right.” He fixes his stare on Shayne. “As you know by now, my daughter is as tough as nails. She doesn’t need me to fight her battles. That being said, if you do hurt her, I’ll be coming for you, and one thing I know how to do coming from Texas is shoot. You get my meaning?”
“Yes, sir.” He nods respectfully, and my admiration for him grows.
“Now you, little girl, need to start talking.”
“We’re training new employees because at the end of the month I’ll be leaving Smoke.”
“How long will the vacation be?”
Forever. “No, Dad, I’m resigning.”
“Are you still upset about that second truck?”
I shake my head. “This isn’t a tantrum or ploy to get you to change your mind, Dad. I’m just following my own route to my dream.”