Page 112 of Owen North

“Yeah,” he says, like he has an infinite well of confidence. “I know.”

* * *

Monday morning comes fast,but not fast enough.

After spending the day with Dylan yesterday, I spent a few hours at my parent’s home last night for gala planning and our family dinner. Mom and I talked at length about the gala, going over every tiny detail. She’s still stressed over the emcee situation. She’s also concerned about an argument that has erupted between two of the women on the planning committee. I got the impression it all feels a little apocalyptic for her. I did my best to keep her focused and I feel like I was successful with that.

I’m on my way to my breakfast date with Adeline and her friend when Owen texts me.

Owen: Are you free for dinner tonight?

Charlize: I might be. I’ll have to check my schedule and get back to you, Mr. North.

He calls almost as soon as I’ve sent the text.

“Aren’t you supposed to be working?” I answer the call. It is 6:20 a.m. after all, Owen’s prime working time.

“I’d be doing that if I wasn’t sitting here thinking of ways to convince you to say yes to dinner tonight.”

“Does this mean that work has been knocked off the top of your list of the four things you think about?”

“Charlize.”

Oh, holy hot Monday morning growls.

“I’m free for dinner. And I promise I’ll be your good girl.”

“Fuck.”

“Did you just run your fingers through your hair?”

“What?”

“When you swore, were your fingers in your hair? I’ve noticed you do that sometimes when I get you all bothered. It’s hot and I think I’m adding it to my list of goals in life. I want to inspire you to mess your hair up more often.”

I hear Julian’s voice in the background, and Owen turns silent like he’s listening to whatever Julian’s saying.

Then, he comes back to me. “I have to go. I’ll pick you up at seven tonight.”

“Should I wear panties?”

“Jesus.” Monday growls are fast becoming a new favorite of mine. “No.”

“I like the way you think, Mr. North.”

I end the call with a huge smile on my face. Who knew Mondays could be so good?

I carry on toward the coffee shop where I’m meeting Adeline, arriving eight minutes later. She’s already here, sitting in the back with a blonde woman. They appear to be deep in discussion over something.

“Charlize,” she greets me warmly when she spots me.

I take the seat across from them. “Do you know what I love?” I say as I get comfortable. “Early morning flirting. Is it not the best thing?”

Adeline laughs, and the blonde woman smiles as she says, “Oh, I love you already. And I agree, it’s such a great way to begin a day.”

“Right?!” I say.

“Charlize,” Adeline says, “meet Jenna. Jenna, meet Charlize.” She looks at me. “Jenna’s my business partner, but we’ve also become good friends.”

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