“Sounds good to me.” Antonio was grateful for the shift in topics. Not that it swept Emily’s suggestion from his mind.
Justin turned to Emily. “Speaking of tomorrow. No pressure, you still have until Monday, but if you’re free this weekend, we’ve got work for you.”
She frowned and let out a soft sigh. “I have to sayno.”
“Don’t answer right away if you’re not certain.” Antonio had expected she’d waver but not outright refuse.
“I don’t need more time. I can’t. I know it’s not technically a conflict of interest or a violation of my contract, but there are so many blurred lines. I don’t want it to become an issue.”
“Of course.” Justin’s tone went flat. “If you change your mind, we’ll be at my place tomorrow. Probably starting at eight.”
“Thanks, but no. I’m sure.” She turned her focus to her food and picked at the vegetables.
There goes that idea.
Chapter Fourteen
THE DOORBELL RANG,and Justin moved to answer. He was surprised to see Emily on his porch. He opened the door wider and made a show of looking around behind her. When he turned back to her, she pursed her lips, but it didn't hide the hint of a smile.
“Do I dare ask what that was about?” she asked.
“Yesterday you were so sure your answer wasno, I was looking for hidden cameras.” If someone were to press him about where the playful mood came from, he'd be forced to admit he was happy to see her. Not only for the extra help she brought, but because it was her. Fortunately, no one was pressing. “What changed your mind?”
“I can't pass up the challenge.”
Which was exactly what he'd hoped for. He stepped aside. “We work in the kitchen. You can set up your laptop in there.”
“There’s a condition.” She stepped inside but didn’t go further.
A crack formed in his mood. “All right?”
“I can’t take any money for doing this.”
“Then what’s the point?”
She shrugged. “I asked myself that on repeat the entire drive over here. And last night, when I made the decision. I even dreamed about the answer. I guess, for personal reasons, the idea is fascinating. You’ve both sold me on how much it means to you to see this finished, and while it probably sounds odd to you, because we barely know each other, that matters. But I still can’t reconcile drawing a paycheck with it not being a conflict of interest.”