Page 8 of Release Me

Connor’s eyebrows rise in question.

“They want us there a week earlier.”

“Seriously? But that’s like … two weeks away, then!”

Baker shrugs. “I know. They said they’ll reimburse flight changes, though.”

“I haven’t booked my ticket yet.”

“What? You’re crazy!” Baker shakes his head. “I bookedmine months ago. I’ll let you know what I move it to. We should fly up together.”

“Definitely. Hey, we’re heading for Chipotle. Want anything?”

“Nah, I’m good. But thanks. See you guys around.” He keeps going down the hall.

And I’m left with yet another surprise courtesy of my new roommate. “You’re going to Alaska?”

“Yeah. That resort is opening.”

I remember the intercompany memo that went out last fall, encouraging Wolf employees to apply for jobs at the new seasonal hotel near Homer. I didn’t even open it. I mean, it’s Alaska. Who the fuck wants to go there?

Apparently Connor. And in two weeks, based on what these guys were just talking about. “How long are you gone for?”

“Five months.”

“Jesus. Youarecrazy.”

“What? Didn’t you ever go to camp?”

I burst out laughing.

“They’re putting the whole staff up in a village of cabins. And paying us better than what they’re paying here.”

“Yeah, it’s called danger pay, because you’re gonna get mauled by bears and cougars and shit.”

“Nah, this is a Wolf luxury resort, not some Ramada Inn. They’ll have all that sorted.”

“You’re gonna be bored.”

“You’re kidding me, right?” He grins. “How long were you pussy-whipped by your ex?”

“Four years,” I admit reluctantly. “Why does that matter?”

“Because have you not noticed the housekeeping staff that Wolf hires?”

“Of course I have.” Our employer is notorious for hiring young, attractive employees. I don’t know how they get awaywith it without any labor discrimination charges tossed their way.

“Well, all those housekeeping girls are gonna be in cabins a stone’s throw away from me, all summer long. Stuck at a resort with nothing to do but fuck crew guys. Thelastthing I’m gonna be is bored.”

“Fair enough.” I should have opened that email. Had I known Tasha was going to dump me, I’d probably be going to Alaska too. “Well … shit. You could have told me.” Here I am, making a fast friend of Connor, and he’s leaving.

He shrugs. “You should see if they’re still hiring.”

“What?” I chuckle. “I just started here. They won’t let me take off.”

“Won’t know if you don’t ask.”

“I don’t know.”

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