She even had the nerve to dress me down for not asking her on a date. I smirk as I think about it. I’d gotten so used to other women jumping at the chance to make a claim or statement about dating a bestselling author, it didn’t even occur to me to ask her out on a date formally. I had assumed an offer of dinner was a date, and one with all the privileges a date would entail, including a kiss at the end of the night. Maybe more. Although, I don’t get the feeling she even realizes I sexually desire her. If she lets me take her out on a date, I need to step up my game.
When I get home, I text Lev.
Asked Kate on a date. She’s aware we both want to date her but is not sure how to handle it. She will likely want to chat with you about it soon.
He’s still in Helena at one of his restaurants, but he texts me back quickly.
Understood. I like Kate, and I think she will be good for you, Lowell. But if she doesn’t want to date us both, I’m not backing away from her.
I nod in agreement, although he can’t see it.
I understand and agree.
CHAPTER 12
KATE
The week flies by, and all I think about is dating Lowell and Lev. They both text me regularly. Lev sends me funny pics or little videos throughout the day, as if he wants to share his day with me. With Lowell, our conversations are slightly more reserved, but we chat back and forth about our favorite books and authors. I started reading his Robert Newman series, and it’s so good. We often talk about the characters and plausibility of the scenarios in the real world.
If I date them both, I need to have a serious talk with Lev first, but it’s Wednesday before he’s available. I texted him earlier in the day to make sure he would be at the bar tonight and asked if he would have time to discuss something important. He told me to come by later, around eight o’clock, and he would have some time to talk. I decide to eat a small dinner at home first, then walk up to the bar to have a glass of wine.
Around seven forty-five, I walk over to The Black and Gold. Entering, I head immediately to my usual seat at the bar and text Lev that I’m here. Courtney is behind the bar and strolls over to speak to me.
“Well, hello, Dr. Michaels. Lev’s slammed tonight. Why don’t you come back another time?” she drawls.
“Hello, Courtney. I’d like a Malbec, please,” I simply order, ignoring her words completely. She stares at me angrily for a second, then strides over and grabs a wine glass. Pouring the Malbec, she brings it back and slams it down on the bar, spilling a few drops. “Thank you,” I murmur.
Taking a sip, I lean back in my chair, silent, as I feel that is the best way to deal with her tantrums. I don’t know if Lev is dating her, too, and I refuse to get in a catfight over a man. Although, given her attitude, I’m bringing this up with Lev tonight. I will not come to the bar if I have to see the other woman all the time. It may be hypocritical of me, since I’m here to talk to him about dating Lowell, but I can’t stand the thought of him dating someone else, especially someone like Courtney. How do I tell him that and then ask to date Lowell?
Tapping the bar in thought, I jump when an arm slides around my shoulders. Turning to the right, I see Lev smiling at me.
“Hello, sweetheart. Why don’t you grab your wine and come with me?”
Once I have the wine in one hand, he takes the other and pulls me out of my chair. Grabbing my coat and purse, he strides towards the stairs in the back. I didn’t even know this place had an upstairs. I follow him up the steps, and as we get to the top, I see a door with “ROOF” labeled on it. Opening the door, he flips a switch so we won’t get locked out, and we step out on the roof.
Looking around, I notice a full bar, little gas fire pits, and tables everywhere. Lev reaches to the right, and soft white string lights turn on over our heads.
