Page 20 of Special Love: A BWWM Romance

I glance over my shoulder and see Stephanie. “I am. How about you?”

“I’m here for the live music. Care to join me?”

I check the time, and it's been hours. I consider Parker for a moment. Last time she saw Stephanie, it wasn't pleasant. She's been cool with me consulting with her for business, but I’d hate for her to get the wrong impression.

“Thanks for the offer but I have plans.”

“Suit yourself.” She heads off towards the courtyard.

I send another text to Parker, I’m heading out.

I’ll be there in fifteen, she responds.

I find an empty table in the lounge. Live music and a night out with my lady seems like the perfect way to end the week. The band starts their first set, and I sit back appreciating the vibe of this place.

“Got a few minutes?”

“A few, Parker is headed over.”

Stephanie sits across from me with her food, and we discuss the progress of the project.

“I doubt we get much done until the session starts in January.”

“What do you suggest?” I struggle to hide my frustration.

“I suggest loading our gun with the right ammo and people. I can get on the calendars of as many representatives and congressmen as possible. Then we can gauge their interest and create a plan to support the other initiatives that favor getting Wine & Dine Delivery here.”

“I hate the thought of putting it off for another six months.” I sit back.

"Consistency is crucial with any expansion, especially one that may require lobbying for legislative change."

We seem to make progress then it's slammed to a screeching halt. But Stephanie has proved herself in the short while we've worked together. She's the official liaison for this rollout, and I have to trust her judgment, it's why I pay her.

"What's the estimated timeline?"

“Under perfect conditions, this time next year. Will you hang around in this area?”

“Am I needed here?”

“Not really with video conferencing and my team locally. I’d guess you’ll need to return here and there. But I don’t expect much activity until February or March.”

“I’ll weigh my options and keep you posted.”

We talk, and I notice once again Parker is a no show. The band takes the stage and let the soul music mask my disappointment. I glance at my phone, hoping to see a text message. She hasn't reached out, and I'm not about to either. She'll call when she's ready.

I glance across the table at Stephanie. “What made you decide to shift from practicing law to starting a consulting firm?”

Chapter 9

I stare at my phone, blinking to bring the picture into focus. The benefit and disadvantage living life in a tight circle of friends and family is your business is never truly your business.

A stare at Max and Stephanie having dinner, and I have to decide on my next move. I expand the picture brushing my fingers across the screen of my phone. Yes, that's him and her. I swipe through the others. Them leaning close together. Him laughing. Her smiling up at him, and I recognize the look in her eyes.

I rub my eyes glancing at the time before dialing his number, not sure what I’ll say.

"Hello." The sound of sleep lingers in his voice, and for a moment, I wish I was there instead of here, still working.

“Busy?”

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