One step at a time.
“You owe me another one,” Hunter said, coming back to the bar.
“Don’t worry. I think I’ll have one with you,” Katie said. “Man, that tasted good.”
“Bartender, set ‘em up. I gotta get back to work,” I said.
“See you around?” Katie asked.
I slid from my seat and turned my eyes toward her, throwing her a tiny smile before I nodded my head.
“Sure hope so,” I said.
“See you ‘round, Caleb,” Hunter said.
“Don’t drink too much. I ain’t draggin’ your ass back to your room,” I said.
“Don’t worry. I got him,” Katie said.
“No, Katie. You let someone get you for once,” I said.
It was the look in her eye that made my blood boil. Like I’d spoken some foreign language to her. The thought of someone taking care of her was now a foreign concept.
I turned my back and made quick work getting back to my office so Katie couldn't see the anger bubbling behind my eyes. Then I punched my metal filing cabinet, denting the side of it as I let out the breath I was holding. The whole time I was picturing Michael in front of me.
What had that man done to her?
CHAPTER 4
KATIE
“This hot tub is phenomenal,” Whitney said.
“You got yourself backed up to some jets, don’t ya?” Lizzie asked. “If you turn ‘round, it’ll really feel good.”
“Seriously, Lizzie?” I asked. “Masturbating with the jets in a hot tub?”
“Wait, who in the world said anything about masturbating?” Whitney asked.
“You never done it? Girl, y’all missin’ out. Here, I’ll show you how—”
“Noo!” Whitney and I said in unison.
“Fine. But y’all two are the ones who’re too wound up. Maybe y’all could use some relaxation,” Lizzie said.
“Which is what I’m getting with having my back massaged with these jets,” I said.
“Okay, can I just say something?” Whitney asked.
“You ready to try my idea?” Lizzie asked.
“Never. But Katie, I’m so glad you didn’t marry that douchebag,” Whitney said.
“That, too. The way you handed it to him in front of that crowd last night was awesome. Girl, I was so proud I was cryin’,” Lizzie said.
“You don’t cry, but thanks for the sentiment,” I said.
“Now, you can let your heart heal and get on with your life,” Whitney said. “Are you going to stay here? Or come back to New York?”