Page 108 of Call Me Sir

“He said no.”

“Really?”

I love how invested Kahlid is in this whole thing. At first, he seemed extremely indifferent about pretty much everything except his own project.

Now he’s the first one to ask for all the tea.

“Don’t worry,” I say with a wide smile. “He’s got a couple other people in mind. He says enough men get to give speeches in his religion and he has some great women in mind for the job.”

“Ah, okay.”

“That’s really cool!” Rumi beams. “That’s really thoughtful of him.”

Kahlid nods. “It is.”

“Have you found enough Tik Tok famous people to attend?” Rumi asks Kahlid.

“Oh yeah, tons of people. Once they realized I’m not a scammer, that is.”

“True, cold calling celebrities is stressful,” I say in agreement.

We all laugh and leave the conference room.

Everything’s coming together nicely. The vendors are booked, the guest list will be confirmed next week and I’ve got my tux ready to go.

“So Cole, who are you bringing as your date?” Rumi asks.

The question is innocent and valid, yet I can’t help but wonder if this is payback for complimenting her art.

I clear my throat, wondering what the hell I should tell them. I don’t want to lie to them, but sure as hell won’t be the truth. Not yet at least.

“Ummm.”

Kahlid lifts his eyebrows at me. “Is it gonna be that big buff dude who used to pick you up at lunch?”

“No…” I say quickly.

Where’s Tony when I need him? He just had to be out sick today. He would know what to say.

“It’s a… surprise.”

“A surprise?” Rumi questions with amusement.

“Well, who are you both bringing?”

“I’m going alone,” Rumi beams. “I hope I can meet someone there…”

I blink, the realization of how much more I need to learn about her sinking in.

“I’m bringing a girl I’ve been talking to.”

“How’d you two meet?” I ask, desperate to know more.

“Let me show you. She’s an absolute dime.”

She’s absolutely gorgeous, with gold weaved into her hair and bright, brown eyes.

“Her name is Alana. She’s not only beautiful but she’s obsessed with sharing the best music and she likes hiking.”

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