And I’m sure Romilly has a different type of man for herself in mind when it comes down to it. One who’s nothing like me. I doubt I could ever live up to the kind of standards she has.
But for some annoying, terribly aggravating reason, there’s a part of me that wants to try.
Chapter Ten
ROMILLY
I smirk at Bash.“Let me make you lunch. It’s the least I can do for the dragon-slayer.” After the way he stepped in, saving me from managing all those kids by myself, I can’t help but feel some gratitude. Besides, I bet he’s hungry. It’s lunch time, and my own stomach is currently rumbling in discomfort.
Those hooded blue eyes jerk to my face with amusement. “If you want to spend more time with me, all you have to do is ask.”
“No, it’s not that. I’m just grateful for your help. ”
He grins. “Well, now I feel you’ve invited me over out of obligation. How uncomfortable.”
A surge of annoyance races through me.Oh, I’ll give you uncomfortable.“Bash, I’d love to have you over for lunch,” I say through my teeth. “You’re a delight to be around, and your blatant flirting doesn’t affect me one bit.”
“See? Was that so hard?” He checks the time on his phone. “I just need to stop at home and then I’ll be on my way to entertain you with my wittiness.”
I nod, but my stomach somersaults. What was I thinking? What did I just initiate? All our encounters have been strictly business so far. Even our coffee date was about offering him ajob. We’ve never spent time together outside of work or church, so I can’t imagine what it will be like to have lunch with him.
Just the two of us. No business involved.
The thought has adrenaline racing in my veins. “Sounds good. I’ll text you my address.”
My mind spins like it’s on fast-forward as I drive home.What if Jasper scratches him? What if he has food allergies like Addison? What in the world should I make us to eat?
By the time I park in the driveway at home, I’ve settled on something, but I text Bash just to make sure.
Me
You aren’t allergic to anything other than hard work, are you?
Bash
Sunshine and small children will also do me in. Why? Hiding either of those in your cupboards?
Me
Very funny.
Bash
I’m on my way. Be there in a few minutes.
I try not to smile and fail as I set down my phone. At least he won’t go into anaphylactic shock like Addison did last year at the Miss Meadow pageant. Hearing about that whole thing almost gave me a heart attack.
With a sigh, I shift my gaze around to make sure my place looks as cozy and inviting as possible. I try to see what Bash will see when he gets here—warm light filtering in through heavy curtains, soft rugs in earth tones, and plants on every surface. It smells like vanilla and the sourdough bread I baked last night. Perfect.
God, why am I excited to have lunch with Bash? Are you trying to tell me something? If not, please make this excitement disappear.
Bash, of all men. I can’t afford to like him because dating a co-worker would be messy enough. Dating Bash—my only help at work—would be especially messy now that I need to raise my rating. Somehow, I doubt a workplace romance would help things.
“What do you think, Jasper?” I tap his nose as he slinks over, standing on the table even though he’s not supposed to. Today, he’s wearing a crocheted hat that makes him look like a lion. Most cats would probably play with the tassels and take it off, but Jasper is special. I pet him until he purrs.
And then I hear knocking.
My stomach does that annoying little flip again.
