Page 56 of The Red-Hot Stakes

“Same.” I puckered up, pretending to blow him a kiss. “If that was our first time, we might as well stop now, ’cause there’s no way you’re going to top that.”

He scoffed. “Wanna bet?”

* * * *

The next evening, Liam and I rode to the bar together, so I could show him the real ropes of opening. I’d sent a group text to the others, asking that they come a little early because the boss had an announcement.

“Hey, guys,” I smiled at Sarah, Wyatt, and Burt as they tromped in, shooting curious looks at Liam who was stocking the fridge. “Liam! They’re here.”

He stood up, wiping his hands on a black apron I’d found for him.

Sarah grinned. “Let me guess. Weston hired you full time?”

“Well, you will be seeing a lot more of me. But no, not quite.” Liam and I exchanged a loaded glance before he said, “I’m actually the new owner of The High Five.”

“Wait, what?” Sarah’s jaw dropped.

“He’s been in the process of finalizing a few things, but it’s official now. He’s the reason the floor got fixed.” I squeezed his hand, needing him to clarify the rest.

“And Gina here is going to be one of my main managers. She’ll be starting in just over a week, once midterms are done. I can hardly wait to begin work on her many new ideas. In the interest of full disclosure, yes, we are dating. No, that had nothing to do with my choice.”

Sarah grinned at me. “You go, girl.”

I ducked my head, pleased at her reaction.

“If any of you feel like they would be good for a management position, please let me know.” He waited a beat, letting that sink in. “And if anyone has further concerns about this, feel free to discuss them with me directly. This is not my only restaurant, and I will be relying heavily on my staff to be sure things run smoothly. We have a great core team, but will definitely need more help. And the sooner, the better.”

He focused on each of us in turn. “I want all of your input on that. Recommendations, references, specific qualities to look for or avoid. If someone doesn’t fit, we need to know right away. Any questions?”

We all stood quietly.

“Good. I have an open-door policy. I want you all to have my cell number as well, especially since we’re just starting off. We’ll be seeing a lot of each other, and I’ll be working right alongside you.”

Sarah tentatively raised her hand. “Tonight, karaoke as usual?”

Liam nodded. “Yep, we won’t change that right away, if at all. It’s been a staple of this bar, but there will be other things added to increase business. You’ll all be well-informed of each new event, and we’ll be properly staffed. Anything else?” When no one spoke up, he clapped his hands together. “All right then, I guess I’ll let you get to it.”

Sarah and Burt disappeared into the main bar area, Wyatt fired up the ovens and Liam tugged me to the stairway.

“How’d I do?”

I ran a hand down his arm, linking my fingers through his. “Just fine, Boss.”

“Hmm. I like the sound of that.”

“Don’t get used to it.” But I couldn’t stop my smile. “Come on, there’s more prep to do.”

A while later, most of the tables were full, there was a wait for karaoke and it was a challenge to keep up with drinks. When we had a little lull, Sarah tugged me aside to assure me how happy she was for me, and she needed more details asap. A burst of relief shot through me. I hadn’t thought there’d be an issue, but I was thankful for the confirmation.

A familiar voice rang out over the sound system. “Ladies and gentlemen, may I have your attention. Before I sing my song, I wanted to take a minute to introduce myself. You see, I am now officially the proud owner of this fine establishment, and I have a special request.”

The whole bar quieted, and I waited to see what he had up his sleeve.

“Gina, darlin’.” He put some twang in his voice. “I know you’re busy, but surely these fine folks can spare you for a minute.”

I scowled, my glare turning on Sarah as she shoved me out from behind the bar. Reluctantly, I made my way toward the stage.

“If you’ve ever been here before, you’ve most likely seen Gina. And many of you have been on the receiving end of that sharp tongue of hers.” He scanned the crowd. “Yes, men, I’m looking at you.”

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