Page 25 of Elevator Pitch

“Good. Just out with Cliff to get some fresh air. He smelledyou, so we came straight here, and I’m starving,” I whine, throwing my head back and rubbing my stomach.

“I can help with that. You’re going to stay out for a bit? I can take my break with you.”

“I’d like that.”

I grab my order, and we sit with Elena at a nearby table. I’m facing the street and Cliff sits beside me, patiently waiting for his food. I unclip the water bottle bowl that hangs from his leash and fill it up, placing his food and water in front of him. He looks at me, waiting for my cue so he can dig in.

“You can eat, Bud.”

He digs in and drinks some water.

While we eat, Elena is catching me up on what’s new withAguilar’sand their upcoming catering gigs. I told her that I met my beautiful new neighbor the last time we had brunch, but I haven’t given an update since. When she asks about her, I mention I ran into her at the coffee shop a few weeks back andwe now have a standing meeting. I wouldn’t call that a date, but it’s a step up from our run-ins.

“I think you should ask her out. You said it yourself, she’s dating and you caught her eye fucking you in the elevator.” She cackles.

“You know I don’t want anything serious.”

“Oh, I’m aware. She could be on the same page, you know? WheneverIgo out, I’m just trying to have a little fun. You do realize that you can date without the intent to marry, right? It’s 2023, Gris.”

She’s got me there.

“You’re right. I shouldn’t assume. I’ll ask her.”

“The worst thing she can say is no and I doubt she will,” she adds with a warm smile.

Cliff whines and when I look down at him, his face is soaked from the water bowl. He stares expectantly at me, waiting for more food. I always get him fresh fruit, and he can smell the watermelon at the table. I chuckle and add some cubes to a bowl for him. He scarfs it down, of course.

When I look up, I recognize two women walking on the other side of the street. It’s as if we talked her up because I’m looking right at Selah as she walks beside her friend, Daya. My breath catches as I stare. I try to play it cool so as not to bring Elena’s attention her way. I’ve already agreed to ask her out, but if she sees her, she’ll encourage me to do it now. They don’t seem to catch sight of Cliff and me before they disappear into a pole dancing studio.

Wait. Selah pole dances?

The thought sends blood rushing straight to my dick. I stiffen.

Down boy. We’re in public.

I can actually see her from here.

I’m just having dinner with my best friend and my dog while I watch my gorgeous neighbor slide down a pole across the street.

Man. That sounds bad.

I’m going to do it anyway.

We discuss my concerns about dating as someone who’s accustomed to casual relationships. She offers some advice as a fellow workaholic who occasionally makes time for hookups and dates.

“I know you don’t forgive yourself for the divorce, and you’re scared to hurt someone else. It was seven years ago, and you were kids. The man in front of me wouldn’t make that mistake again.”

“You really think so? Not just because you’re my best friend?”

She stares at me deadpan. “You’re reading romance just to make conversation. Youlikeher. Get to know each other. There’s no harm in that. Ask her on arealdate. I’ll help you plan it. What’s she into?”

“Music and books,” I say without hesitation.

“Ooh! Take her to that romance bookstore in Brooklyn. I’m sure she’ll love that.”

“What else?”

“Grab food and just talk.”

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