I just thought—
What? That he might be interested in doing something together on his only day off?
Maybe…
Silly Iris. That’s not how this relationship is going to work.
He clears his throat. “There’s no race next weekend, but since you weren’t the worst company ever, you can join me for the one after.”
A spark of something comes to life in my chest that should warn me away from spending more time with Declan. I should take it as a sign to keep my personal life and business life separate, but I don’t.
I nod my head and confirm our new tradition.
* * *
“I’m disappointed in you.” Cal drops into the living room couch.
“What did I do now?” I look up at him from my spot next to the coffee table. Once Declan cleared the space of his contraband snacks, I decided to make myself comfortable and get to work. Between planning a wedding and working overtime, I can’t find enough hours in my day to get everything done.
At least not with our wedding coming up next Saturday.
Cal scans the stacks of papers spread out across the table before scowling. “So this is it? We’re back to the same position you were in before you applied for a transfer?”
My heart stops in my chest as I bolt from the area rug and assess the perimeter. The hallways are empty and I don’t hear Declan moving around upstairs, so he must be somewhere out of earshot.
After our morning bonding session, the last thing I want him to know about is my little secret.
The one I filed away in theso not happeningdrawer of my brain.
“He left.”
“Left the house?” I plop onto the couch across from him.
“He was walking out the door as I was pulling in.”
“Oh.” I’m not sure why the idea of Declan leaving without telling me anything makes my chest feel all tight and uncomfortable. It’s not like I expect him to tell me everything, but a courtesyI’m going outwould be nice. Especially since I thought we shared a fun moment this morning.
“I’m guessing based on the state of this place that you’re not leaving, are you?”
“No.”
“Why not?”
“Because I failed.”
He shakes his head. “Doesn’t mean you can’t try again somewhere else. Anywhere else really, so long as they appreciate you.”
“Declan appreciates me.”
“So long as you do everything he wants.”
My eyes narrow. “That’s not true and you know it.” I don’t doeverythinghe wants. He might be the boss, but I have no problem standing up to him and sharing my ideas. I’d like to think that’s part of the reason I’ve lasted longer than my predecessors.
“His appreciation is built on contingencies, just like everything else about him.”
“What do you expect me to do? We’re getting married.”
Both our gazes shift toward my engagement ring.