Page 12 of Tempt Thy Neighbor

“And we both know how competitive you are,” Dean says.

I like to say driven more than competitive, but he’s right. I’ve always had this urge to be the best. To never fail.

Which is probably why I stood by my father’s side for so long. I didn’t want to fail him.

“Guess you weren’t playing about going out there and conquering the world.”

“Not even a little bit.”

“That shit deserves another shot.” He pours us one more and we sling them back like the pros we aren’t. “So, it’s different from what you were doing for Dad. How are you feeling about that aspect of it? Excited to be back in the marketing game?”

“It’s scary. I mean, how can it not be? I’ve been an assistant for the last four years. You know how excited I was when I first started at Evans Inc. in the marketing department. I loved it. Then I stepped in for Nancy. I forgot how good it feels to create something, to help someone else achieve their dream. I’m ready for that challenge again, you know?”

He nods. “I know that feeling very well.”

“You didn’t even give it a chance,” I say, referring to how quickly he ditched getting his degree.

He shrugs. “When you know it’s not for you, you know. I’m much happier teaching a bunch of fifth graders than I ever was sitting through some boring-as-hell business management class.”

“Even when they make fun of you for your mustache?”

Dean’s always been a scruffy-face kind of guy, but earlier this year he decided to give a mustache a try.

That lasted all of three days.

His students picked on himhard, and I can’t say I blame them. He looked ridiculous.

“Yes, even when they are being complete shitheads.”

“I don’t think you’re allowed to call your students shitheads.”

He lifts his shoulders unapologetically. “Call ’em like I see ’em.”

I laugh, shaking my head. “Some days I still can’t believe you’re shaping the minds of our youth.”

“Hey! I helped raise your ass. You turned out just fine.”

“Fifteen months, Dean. Fifteen months.”

“It’s long enough for me to know better than you.”

“Uh-huh. Keep telling yourself that.” I push off of the stool. “I’m gonna go change, maybe start looking for an apartment.”

“What? Already? You know you’re more than welcome to stay here as long as you want. River doesn’t mind one bit if that’s what you’re worried about.”

“Oh, I know,” I say. “She loves me and I love her too. But I really don’t think I can stand listening to how much she lovesyoufor much longer.”

A slow smirk takes over his lips. “Can’t help that your brother is a stud.”

I gag, taking off down the hall. “Ew. Please don’t ever say that again.”

“I’m a stud, Holland! A grade-A stud! Total sex machine!”

“I hate you!”

“Liar!”

“I thinkit’s incredible how you two can eat pie for breakfast and dinner like it’s nothing.”

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