“Knock, knock.” I glance up to see Dan standing in my doorway. “How’s it going?”
I rub my forehead hard, willing the headache away. “I’m good. How are things with you?”
“Uh oh.” He flops into the chair opposite me and narrows his eyes. “You have that look in your eye again.”
“What are you talking about?” I don’t have the brain capacity for solving mysteries today.
“I’m talking about that determined look. Are you working with the women’s charity again?”
“Yes, I am actually. Is it really that obvious?”
“Oh yeah. It’s always in your eyes. A fire that I don’t understand.” Dan points to my face. “I don’t get why you need to do this, not when you can earn so much for each job. It’s a waste of time and talent.”
“It isn’t a waste. You know why I do it. It’s because of my mom.”
“But offering your services for free is something that you do at the beginning of your career when you’re trying to build up a base. Everyone knows the name Zane Black these days.”
“I’m not having this argument with you again. Mom had people help her, she wouldn’t have escaped otherwise, so I do the same. It’s called giving back. Maybe you should try it some time.”
“I do what all normal people do and give money to charity.”
“Skills are just as useful as money. Sometimes even more so.” I decided to try one more time. “You should come and join me, offer your lawyer services. You will be surprised how rewarding it is.”
I keep thinking that one day he will crack, but he never does. “Nah! I need cash.”
“Alright, well we aren’t ever going to agree on this, are we? So, why don’t you tell me about your date?”
“How do you know that I went on a date last night?” Dan asks in mock shock.
“Because you’re on a date every night.” I roll my eyes. “I’d be more shocked if you weren’t, to be honest.”
“Alright, well she was foxy as hell and filthy to boot. A really freaky chick, she likes to do all sorts…”
I tune out as he launches into a much too detailed explanation of the woman he hooked up with. I don’t mind the tales, sometimes I even have one of my own, but today it feels seedy. Probably because Nova is still on my mind. I just can’t stop imagining her life and what it must be like. One-night stands don’t fit in.
“Oh, and before I forget, I ran into Kelli while out at the restaurant… you do remember her, right? Well, she was asking for you and I’m pretty sure that she’s up for it. You know… if you want some?”
He nudges me and winks which a
ctually makes me laugh. He’s ridiculous sometimes.
“I went on three dates with Kelli and she got crazy. She called me all the time, don’t you remember? And she wouldn’t stop texting. I actually thought I might have to get a restraining order out at one point.”
“So?” Dan shrugs, totally missing my message. “She’s crazy but hot.”
“Looks aren’t everything, you know? I don’t need any drama in my life.”
“Your need to keep away from drama keeps you away from everything. You’re so concerned with keeping your life straightforward and just as it is that you miss out on something that could be amazing.”
“I know that everything you’re telling me is right, I really do, but Kelli isn’t that. I won’t ever let her back in because she needs way more than I can offer her. Unfortunately, it’s just the way it is.”
Dan nods knowingly. “Yeah, you’re probably right with that one. But what about if I arrange a double date for us? Get us some hot girls to have a good night with. A really good night if you know what I mean.”
I know the kind of girls that Dan dates, I’m not sure they are for me. “I don’t know if that’s a good idea…”
“Don’t shoot me down.” He tosses his head back in annoyance. “Just give it a try, please, I know what sort of women you like, I will make sure the one that you’re dating is right for you.”
I can see it in his face, he isn’t going to give up. He’s decided that this is what he wants to do now and there isn’t a damn thing that I can say to change his mind. The more I disagree, the more wound up he will get.