Page 79 of Fluke
“We can talk about this later,” I say.
“Or we can talk about it right now.”
“Are you sure?”
“Talk.”
I grin. “This is last minute and really ridiculous to even do—and I am not going to be upset if you say no and laugh in my face because that’s really what I expect. But … to make a long story short, Bridgit has offered to let me take off work this week to go to Silver Springs. I told her I doubt you can go, but I’d ask.”
The line stills.
“Jess, I know you probably can’t, and I probably shouldn’t have asked.”
“Um, yeah, you should’ve. Let me call Moss and my dad real quick. We’re just demoing this week, which the crew can do without me. And I haven’t taken a day off in like … maybe ever.”
I smile. “So … maybe?”
“Maybe. Let me call you back in a few.”
“Awesome. Thanks, Jess.”
“Anything for you. Talk to you in a bit.”
“Bye.”
I end the call and go back to researching potential retreat packages, the staff we’ll need to move to the new department, and the expected budgets for each trip. When the phone buzzes beside me, I realize a solid hour has gone by.
Jess: Sorry for the delay. Dad was in a meeting.
Me: No worries.
Jess: Dad is going to check on the guys this week. I’ll be with you.
I squeal.
Me: Really?
Jess: Really really. But I have to go now to get things in shape to leave. We go tomorrow?
Me: Yes. I’ll make all of the plans now.
Jess: Perfect. I’ll have to work late to get things squared away, but feel free to hang out at my house if you want.
Me: I have an apartment.
Jess: But my house is always open to you. I want you to know that.
Me: You’re sweet. But I need to go home and get packed.
Jess: We’ll see. I’ll call you when I’m out of here. Okay?
Me: Okay. Thank you for making this work.
Jess: Anything for you.
Anything for you.He … what do you say to that?
“Let me treat you like you’re mine. Pretend we’re in a real relationship. Give me that. I want a real chance to make you fall for me.”
