Page 15 of Obeying the Owner

“A gin and tonic, please.”

She nods and sets about making our drinks.

“I hope I didn’t keep you waiting long,” I say, sitting on the barstool beside hers.

She shakes her head. “Not at all. I’m chronically early for everything. I think it’s a genetic defect.”

“Punctuality is a positive thing, especially when it comes to work. I bet your boss loves you.”

She smiles. “Pretty sure he does.”

“What do you do?” I ask.

“I’m an executive assistant. It’s not the most glamorous job, but so far, I love it.”

“You haven’t been there long?”

“No, just since the beginning of the year.”

“What did you do before that?” I ask.

“I was in grad school.” She studies my face for my reaction, but I manage to keep my expression one of interest and not shock or horror. Fuck me. She’s even younger than I imagined. “Are you alarmed by my age?” she asks.

“Alarmed? No. Surprised? Maybe.” I smile.

“In case you’re wondering my exact age, I’m twenty-five.”

“I’m forty-two. Does that bother you?”

She shakes her head. “Not at all.”

The bartender returns, sliding our drinks to us. I hand over my credit card. “Can we start a tab, please?”

Mae and I sip from our drinks until the bartender returns and hands my card back to me.

“Would you like to sit at a table or on one of the couches?” I ask.

“Sure.”

Standing up, I grab my drink, and I’m about to reach for hers too, when I pause. “Do you mind if I carry your drink?”

She gives me an appraising glance. “I don’t mind, but thanks for asking. That’s a first for me.”

I pluck her copper mug from the bar. “I know women can’t be too careful these days.”

Way to make yourself sound like an old man.

“You’re right. We can’t.”

While we walk side by side, it’s all I can do to keep my eyes off her. “Pick wherever you’d like to sit,” I say.

She chooses a small round table next to the railing that runs around the roof’s perimeter, giving us a great vantage point from where we can see nearly the entire city.

Setting our drinks on the table, I pull a chair out for her. “Thank you.” She lowers, sweeping her hands over the back of her skirt before she sits.

“You’re welcome.” I take the seat across from her, and I’m once again dazzled by her bright blue eyes. Not even the evening sky and dim lighting can detract from their stunning appearance.

“I never asked what you do for work,” Mae interrupts my staring.

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