The more we talked—sorry the more he talked—the more he delved into the details of his life. Describing his time in college to the challenges he faces at work. I even know the name of hismother’s dog, which is Bella, and the names of his co-workers in his high-powered city job.
And what did he find out about me? Nothing.
I’m glad I’m on my lunch break, anything to make an excuse and leave him earlier than I planned. Even if it means I have to go back to my crappy job, and my shitty boss.
I chuckle to myself, because that’s something in itself.
I mean, who wants to go back to their greasy-haired, slimy boss, who doesn’t understand the meaning of personal space?
My boss is a jerk. But after leaving school, this was the only job I could get. And working for a law firm means I can find a different route to the profession. I have high aspirations, and one day I want to become a lawyer.
I’m grateful for him giving me the job. Not that I think that every day. Certainly not on the days he scares me and tries to corner me in his office.
For those reasons, I try my best to avoid him at all costs, because I know exactly what he’s after. And despite making it clear that I won’t give it to him, the man is relentless. He is also very much married. I’ll never go there.
And I’m saving myself for the perfect man.
I don’t want a rich, powerful, or forceful man. I certainly don’t want a married man. The type I prefer is soft, shy, and nerdy. Don’t get me wrong, I’d prefer it if he had a job so one day we’d save up enough money to have a family.
Someone like Killian. He’s hot to look at, but seeing him blush is cute and I know he’s truly shy because of the way he tried to stare secretly at me from the table opposite.
I loved how his dark, espresso-colored hair perfectly complemented his mesmerizing hazel-colored eyes. He probably doesn’t realize it, but there’s a subtle, golden glow outlining his irises.
When I found out he wasn’t my date, I was so disappointed—understatement of the year. I nearly pretended that, yes, I was waiting for a man called Killian.
I groan. I really wish Darrel hadn’t turned up.
“Excuse me.”
A man’s voice takes me out of my reverie as I stroll back to my office.
My smile is forced as I turn, my mind racing to find a plausible excuse to escape another date with Darrel.
But when he comes into view, my heart starts pounding against my ribs. “Killian,” I breathe.
He smiles. He has a cute, slightly sheepish look on his face, and it’s clear that he’s feeling embarrassed.
“Gabby...” His voice trails off, and he shifts his gaze downwards, fixating on the floor.
I hold my breath, waiting for his gaze to lock with mine once again, and when it does, I smile. “Yes, Killian.”
“I … I noticed you didn’t eat,” he stammers. “Would you like some lunch?”
A hint of joy dances across my lips. It’s nice that he noticed, but... “I only have fifteen minutes left.”
“Fifteen minutes is all I need,” Killian says, and looks around, spotting a pizza cart ahead. “Pasta or pizza?”
“I love pizza.” I grin as I reach into my purse, feeling the soft fabric and the jingle of loose change, until I locate a folded twenty-dollar bill and pull it out of my purse. It’s not much, but it’s all I have.
“Me too,” he says, waving my offer away. “I’ll get them.”
“Thanks,” I sputter as I stand beside him as he makes the order, pays and takes our food.
“We’ll sit over there.” He points.
We walk to a park bench, and when I sit, I feel the smooth wood against my skin.
He shuffles closer to me, the touch of his jean-clad thighs against mine sends a jolt of electricity through my body. I think he feels it too, because as he nervously rubs his hand over his leg, his fingers accidentally brushing against my thigh.