That’s the problem.
“Hey, sorry.” Billy is at the door. “She needs an oil change, but I’m not sure we have the right filter for her car…”
Clearing my throat, I return to where Leslie is waiting by her yellow Mazda Miata. “I can order it.”
She blinks up at me, smiling. “If you need me to come back next week—”
“It’s okay.” I walk up to look in the open hood. “The guys are pretty quick with supplies. We should be able to do it tomorrow.”
Billy hands me the part, and I walk to the computer. I feel Leslie following, and when I stop she’s right beside me.
“How’s it going, Gray? Any trouble getting back into the swing of things?” She puts her hand on my arm.
“I’m doing okay.” I continue entering the part number.
“Dag said you were at the Red Cat Saturday? He said you were feeling pretty down about Danny. It’s completely understandable.”
My throat tightens, but I hold steady. “I guess it’s normal.”
“Of course it is!” Her voice goes high, breathy. “You and Danny were inseparable. I remember.” She exhales a laugh. “Remember that weekend at the lake? Did you get those photos developed?”
“You know, I forgot.” The oil filter appears on the screen. “Here it is. If you think you’ll be coming here pretty regularly, I’ll order extras.”
Just like Mack. I remember my first day and all the filters for Mrs. Green’s station wagon.
“Definitely order extra.” Our eyes meet, and she gives me a sly grin. “I’m sure I’ll come very regularly with you here.”
“Sorry to barge in like this.” Drew’s voice, causes me to take two steps back.
Shit. What’s with everybody sneaking around these days?
“I’m just dropping off the Jag like you asked.”
“Drew… hey.” I go to where she’s waiting, her eyes throwing flames. “You look reall
y pretty today.”
She’s wearing navy slacks and a pink top that buttons up the front and has a little belt at the high waist. She looks like the gorgeous, professional nerd she is, and I want to unwrap her like a present.
I want to tell her she has nothing to worry about with Leslie. I’ve been dodging that girl for years.
“I don’t really have time to stay.” She gives me a pointed look. “Unless…”
Leslie walks out to the garage, and I wince when she stops to bend over, digging in the glove box of her small car. Her ass is right in the air, pointing at me.
“I could walk you back?”
Drew’s pretty lips are pressed in a thin line. “It’s just across the street. I think I’ll make it. Will you?”
“You have nothing to worry about.” My eyes hold hers. She can’t think I’d prefer Leslie over her.
“Sometimes I’ not sure.” She leaves her keys and starts for the door.
Leslie walks around to the back of the Miata. “Gray? I could really use some body work. Are you up for that?”
My jaw clenches, and Drew’s eyes narrow. “I don’t do body work.” I say the words clear and definite. “Not here.”
“Really?” Leslie’s voice is fake innocence. “It seems like you’re missing an opportunity.”