Page 97 of Breaking the Rules
She's beautiful in everything.
"Let's talk about work," she says.
That might be a more loaded topic. "What about it?"
"Ryan really likes you. And he doesn't like anyone. Him inviting you to join the shop… that's practically rolling out the red carpet."
Maybe. He's not a guy for pleasantries. Or bullshit.
He said he wants me there.
He must mean it.
It's hard to accept that.
To see myself as someone people want around.
I want to deserve that.
To believe I deserve that.
"Are you going to take the job?" she asks.
"Probably." I want to make things work with Chase. I'm not giving up on him. But I'm not giving up on paying my own rent either. I can't wait until he's over hating me to take a paying gig.
Emma's gaze shifts from me to the corner of the room.
To Collin.
He's heading over here in jeans and a t-shirt.
He's not even trying to impress her.
Fuck, I hate the smarmy little asshole and he hasn't done anything.
I hate him for existing.
For wanting to touch Emma.
He goes around the table to hug Emma.
She hugs him back with awkward posture.
She's usually better at faking interest. She charms clients' pants off, even when they're obnoxious.
"You look beautiful." He takes the seat across from hers. "You too, Hunter."
"He kinda over-did it." Emma laughs as she gives me a long once-over. Her eyes linger on my slacks. My black belt. My button-up shirt.
"Now you tell me?" I try to make my voice teasing, but it's not quite there.
"You look good. Handsome." Her blush spreads to her chest. "But Carpe Diem—"
Collin's brow furrows with confusion.
"Alice," I say.
"She asked you out, right?" Emma asks.
