Page 24 of Neighbors With Benefits

The three of us made small talk while Aiden finished cooking. It had been a crazy week at work for them, which Bash said was unusual because things were typically calm when they were in town. “The crazy stuff usually happens when we’re traveling for an acquisition.”

I told them about my week training new hires, including one girl who I had to fire on the very first day because I caught her smoking weed in the bathroom during her shift.

“I’m so glad I don’t have to manage people,” Bash muttered while twisting his beer bottle between two fingers. “Unlike Aiden.”

“Oh?” I asked.

“It’s not so bad!” Aiden said cheerfully. He was still facing away from us cooking dinner, and his ass looked great in his sweatpants.

Not that I was looking, of course.

“You complain all the time,” Bash pointed out.

“Sure, there are always some annoying people who refuse to learn a new system,” Aiden admitted. “But most of the time I’m working with employees who are excited and motivated. They’re the best students.”

“When we acquire a new store, our company usually consolidates several positions,” Bash explained to me.

“That’s corporate speak for firing people,” Aiden called over his shoulder.

“Firings, yeah,” Bash said with a wince. “It makes things more efficient. But by the time Aiden arrives to train people, the layoffs have already happened. Everyone who remains is relieved and grateful to still have a job.”

“Like I said: they’re the best students,” Aiden said. “Food’s ready!”

Tonight’s meal was grilled chicken with lime couscous and vegetables. It was incredible, a fact which I stated several times while we ate.

“He’s very good at what he does,” Bash said. “That’s why we let him do all the cooking.”

“I enjoy it, so I don’t mind,” Aiden said with a shrug.

“I’m glad you invited me. I might have to come over every Sunday.”

Bash finished his meal first, so he got started on the dishes in the kitchen. That left Aiden and I alone finishing our beers.

And just like that, the awkwardness returned.

“You two have unfinished business,” Bash called from the sink.

“We do?” I asked.

“Aiden told me what happened at your place last Sunday.”

“He… he did?”

“Bash…” Aiden warned.

Bash dried his hands and opened a cabinet in the living room. “You two tied in Bananagrams. It’s been bothering poor Aiden here all week.” He placed aScrabblebox on the table between us. “Sorry, Jazz, but you’re not allowed to leave until it’s settled.”

Aiden chuckled. “We don’t have to play if you don’t want.”

I raised an eyebrow at him. “That’s fine. I knew you were scared.”

Aiden stared at me for three long seconds, then tore the top off the box. “Best of three.”

“Columbia rules,” I countered. “Seven rounds per game, high score wins.”

Aiden scoffed. “As if there’s any other way to play.”

“Nerds,” Bash muttered while he resumed washing the dishes.

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