How’d it go?
She said she would think about it.
Perfect. I knew you could sway her.
She said it’s going to be a lot of work.
You can do this. I know it.
Don’t you mean WE can do this?
Well, I have a lot going on.
And you’re literally here to help me.
But if you don’t want to, I can always ask Dru.
Dru?
She’s been dying to hang out more.
I grit my teeth. I’m sure she has. She always made a big deal about me and Jasmine being friends. She used to cry to her mother, saying it wasn’t fair. I think my stepmom even tried to speak to Jasmine’s parents about getting her to spend time with Dru and Stasia. I guess some things never change.
That’s up to you.
Jasmine doesn’t answer, and I sigh. Guess I’ll call it a day. I’m almost to the front door when I bump into Jafar. He’s on his phone and rolls his eyes when he sees me. Ugh. Of course, out of all the people in freaking New York, I run into him. Again.
“Do you ever watch where you’re going?”
“Do you?” I snap back.
“Oliver, I’ll see you next week.” He ends the call, turning to me. “Let me guess. You took all the toilet paper and need to get out of here before security stops you.”
He looks over my shoulder, as if he’s waiting for security to come rushing toward me.
“I didn’t take anything. For your information, I’ve had a long day and was hoping to find a bar nearby for a drink.”
“Have you had anything to eat?”
“No.”
“Is Jasmine still here?”
“She’s in her office.”
He sighs. “Come on. There’s a pub within walking distance. I’ll text Jasmine and tell her to meet us there.”
I want to tell him no, but he puts his hand on my lower back, ushering me forward. Outside, the air is cool, but not unbearable. Plus, Jafar puts off enough heat that I don’t even need a jacket. He wasn’t kidding when he said the pub was within walking distance. It’s also busy, but we bypass the line of people waiting to be seated.
A man calls out, “Jafar. Long time no see.”
“Iago, how are the wife and kids?”
The man grins. “Good. And who is this young lady? Did you finally get rid of the old ball and chain?”
Jafar laughs, not the least bit insulted by Iago’s words. “This is Jasmine’s best friend. Jasmine will be here shortly.”
“Pity.” He slaps Jafar’s shoulder. “One of these days you’ll wise up.”