Page 106 of Mountain Boss

I’ve heard them mention thisInnbefore, and a night on the town sounds fun. But…two hundred dollars in my bank account. “Thanks, but I’m feeling tired, so I’ll stay home—er, here, tonight.” My cheeks heat.

This is my home. As much as anywhere has ever been, but I’ve never called it that in front of someone.

“You sure? Simpson usually heads home early. You could always ride with him.” Fisher offers up our coworker.

“I’m sure. But thank you for inviting me.”

Fisher sighs, then turns to look at Sterling. “How about you, Boss? Wanna hit the town?”

I do the same as Fisher and look at our boss.

“I have some errands to run.” He starts to stand. “But I’ll meet you guys there.”

Oh.

Sterling picks up his empty plate and turns away from the table.

He’s going to the bar.

With the guys.

Tohit the town.

I pull in a long inhale through my nose.

None of it means anything.

Not last night. Not the bar. None of it.

What we did was no strings attached.

No promises.

No future.

Just fun.

I pick up another chip.

I can do casual.

I don’t watch Sterling put his dishes away.

I don’t watch him walk back past our table.

I don’t notice the way he looks at me.

I don’t do any of that.

Because I’m casual.

Super chill.

No hurt feelings.

Not at all.

Chapter 87

---