Page 21 of Café Diablo

Olivia:I’m not going in. This is an ambush.

Arie:If by ambush you mean … all you have to do is ask him if he wants a taste and he’ll be in your bush … then yes.

Olivia:You’re my boss!

Arie:And you’ve heard me say far worse in person!

I can practically hear Arie laughing on the other end of the phone. She’s right. The things I’ve heard come out of that woman’s mouth are deliciously vile. Honestly, it’s part of the whole Flambé vibe. Normally, I love it. But normally, that wicked tongue isn’t aimed at me.

Connor:I just texted Ned’s office assistant, Judy. She knows you’re coming with the tarts, so … say hi to my brother for me!

Olivia:This is coercion!

Connor:No, it’s not. Ask my brother, he’ll be happy to bore you to death with the nuances.

Arie:Be sure to lock the door when you feed him the tart. You never know what my desserts will inspire.

Connor:I just told Judy you were outside.

Olivia:Seriously?

Connor:Go ahead, leave without delivering the tarts. I dare you. I’ll text Ned after and tell him you were there, but you left.

I glare at my phone, speechless. These two are relentless.

Connor:Have you left yet? No?

Connor:I don’t see a photo of tarts on the asphalt.

Arie:If you encourage her to destroy my art, I will cut you Connor!

Connor:Who’s side are you on?

Arie:Olivia,go up there and offer him your tart. I’m sure he’ll find it more delicious than anything I can bake.

Connor:Mmmmm … Tart.

Olivia:I’m pretty sure I can sue you both for harassment now.

Connor:You’re right. Good thing you’re standing in front of a lawyer’s office. Go get a consultation from my brother. I’m sure he’d love to read this message thread.

Connor:Hi Ned, Sorry bro. I was just trying to get you laid.

Olivia:You both owe me—big time. Next time I need a day off or a favor…

Arie:The next time you need a big—

Arie:*eggplant emoji*

Connor:Oh, and Olivia… Remember, Ned likes to win, but I think he likes letting you win even more.

Olivia:I’m done with this conversation.

Connor:Good. Because Judy has texted me about three times wondering where you are.

Olivia:* middle finger emoji*

Arie:It may take a few more tarts before Ned’s ready to sit on that. But, if anyone can get him to try new things, it will be you!

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