Page 30 of Strength

“Oh, yeah, for five years now.”

“Nice.”

I glanced at the creepy guy and then the clock above the front door. “Would you like some company?”

“Of course.”

I glanced at Rea, who was ogling Emmett. “Tell the boss I’m going on my lunch break early.” I didn’t care if I got flamed. I’d make up for it later.

I untied my apron as Emmett and I made our way over the road to a small grassed area with picnic benches. My mouth watered when he opened the plastic cover of his sandwich.

“Where’s your lunch?”

“I don’t always have lunch,” I answered.

“Why not?”

I shrugged and lowered my gaze to the graffiti on the benchtop.

Without a second thought, Emmett laid his napkin out in front of me and placed half of his sandwich on top of it. “I hope you like chicken salad.”

“What are you doing?”

“My dad always said you need to eat three square meals a day to stay strong and healthy.”

I opened my mouth to say something, but he didn’t let me.

“Don’t argue. Eat.”

I picked up the sandwich and took a bite.

“So, I’m liking this coincidence, Olivia.” His eyes twinkled with happiness.

“You mean you really didn’t know I worked here?”

“No. You didn’t tell me which supermarket, and I haven’t stalked you. I was grabbing the sandwich and saw you. You look so cute in your apron.”

I narrowed my eyes at him. “It’s a necessary part of the uniform.”

“Of course,” Emmett said, throwing his hands up in defence.

I giggled and he visibly relaxed when he realised I’d tricked him.

Emmett leaned forward. “You know what else I think?”

I leaned toward him. “What?”

“I think I’m a good influence on you.”

Cocky bastard.

“Oh really? Why is that?” I asked.

“Because now you’re teasing me, baby. I guess I bring it out in you, huh?”

Instead of answering him, I snatched his water bottle and took a swig.

“Don’t fight it. Let it happen.”

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