Page 29 of Hooked on Mack
“Come on, we're just having a bit of fun,” chimed in Mindy with a sly smile. “Besides, isn't Larissa the one who usually puts people in their place?”
“Ha! You've got that right.” I managed a chuckle despite my irritation. My heart swelled with pride at the thought of Larissa—her intelligence, her confidence, and her unwavering determination. We were a formidable team, both in and out of the courtroom, and I wouldn't have it any other way.
“Look, I know you guys are just teasing, but I'm genuinely happy. Larissa is an incredible woman, and our relationship is something I'm proud of. So yeah, we had a great weekend together, and I'm not ashamed to admit it.”
There was a pause, and then everyone started talking at once, offering congratulations and expressing support for our newfound romance.
“See, Mack, we knew you'd come around. Just remember, we're all here for you—even if we can't resist poking fun every now and then.”
“Thanks, guys.”
As the chatter died down and everyone returned to their work, I allowed myself a moment to take it all in. Sure, this office was filled with gossip and teasing, but at the end of the day, wehad each other's backs. And as I settled back into my chair, my thoughts returned to Larissa when her name appeared on my phone.
Larissa: Can't wait to see you later tonight.
Me: Neither can I.
I immersed myself in a particularly complicated case file, trying to push away the lingering unease that still clung to the edges of my thoughts. As the day drew to a close and the office began to empty, I took a deep breath, letting the last remnants of tension dissipate into the air. My coworkers had shown their support for my relationship with Larissa, and any lingering doubts or concerns would have to be faced in due time.
19
Larissa
I glance at the clock for the hundredth time. Butterflies flutter in my stomach, leaving me feeling excited and nervous. It's funny how quickly things have changed between us since the divorce case ended. We've been seeing each other every night.
Get a grip, Larissa. It's just a date. It's just Mack.
“Talking to yourself again?” My friend, Jess, teased from the doorway.
“Ugh, don't sneak up on me like that!” I exclaimed, startled by her sudden appearance.
“Sorry, I couldn't resist. So, this Mack guy must be pretty special if you're this worked up about a date.”
“Maybe he is.” Since the case, Mack had really opened himself up to me, showing a different side to him that I found incredibly endearing.
“Ooh, I want details!” Jess insisted, sitting on my bed and giving me an expectant look.
“Later, okay? I need to focus on getting ready.”
“Fine, fine. Have fun, lovebirds!” she called out as she left, causing me to roll my eyes.
With Jess gone, I took a moment to remember the Mack I’d come to know. I applied the finishing touches to my makeup,taking special care to accentuate my features without looking overdone. Tonight felt different somehow—as if there was something new and exciting waiting just around the corner for Mack and me.
Before leaving, I gave myself one last once-over.Wow, Montgomery. You clean up pretty good.Okay, this is it. He's the one you've been waiting for.
I’d always been so guarded, so focused on my career and success. The idea of opening my heart to someone had always seemed too risky, too vulnerable. But with Mack, it suddenly felt worth the plunge.
As I arrived at the restaurant, Mack was already waiting for me, his eyes lighting up when he saw me. God, he looked amazing in that suit.
“Wow, you look absolutely stunning.”
“You don't look too bad yourself.”
“Shall we?” he asked, offering me his arm. I took it with a smile.
As we perused our menus, I was torn between the lobster risotto and filet mignon. Decisions, decisions. Though, honestly, I was more focused on the man sitting across from me than the food tonight.
“Have you decided?” Mack asked, setting down his menu.
