Page 20 of By His Rule

“Kian decided to interrupt,” I explain, “and thought it was highly amusing to dive into all the details about why I’m currently unemployed.”

“He what?” she shrieks.

“It was going really well before that,” I reluctantly confess. “It all felt and sounded…”

“Perfect?” she finishes for me when I trail off.

“Yes,” I snap, hating that she’s right.

Everything about that place is perfect, from the décor to the people inside. I want to be a part of it all so badly.

But I can’t. Now for even more reasons than before.

“I’m going to kick his ass into next year when I see him.”

“Just leave it, T.”

“No. I won’t. You deserve this job, Lor. It was practically made for you, and the timing couldn’t be any more perfect.”

“Stop, please?” I beg, unable to listen to it anymore.

“What are you doing tonight?”

Going home and crying myself to sleep…

“Might see if Cory is free for a drink. I’ve ignored his calls all week,” I confess with a wince.

“He’s got a date,” Tate informs me, ruining my plans.

“Come to ours for a drink.”

“Tate,” I warn.

“Come on. Griz misses you.”

“That’s a low blow,” I mutter.

“What? She does. King’s working late, and I’ll be lonely.”

“You’d better not be pouting right now, Mrs. Callahan.”

“Then maybe you should agree and stop me.”

I let out a huff. “Fine. But you're ordering Chinese from that place you found, and the alcohol better be strong.”

“That’s more like it. You can have my share of the alcohol,” she offers. “You need me to send a car?”

“No, I’ll get the bus.”

“Shut up, Lor. Where are you?”

“Around the corner from Callahan. I’ll?—”

“Lewis is already there. Stay where you are, he’ll bring you to me.”

“Tate—”

“Stop arguing, Lorelei Tempest,” she snaps teasingly. “For once will you just do as you’re told?”

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