Page 42 of Grand Love

I nod my head once, running my tongue across my teeth.

“Get out.”

So fucking rude. She makes me want to quit but I can’t. I need the money more than her manners right now.

I shake my head at Ashley, telling her with my eyes not to say a word. I know Rochelle will be able to hear us still. Rolling myself up to the computer I get my head down and start to process bookings, not letting anything else penetrate my headspace.

* * *

Elliot is sittingon my sofa when I get home later that evening. He stands when he sees me.

“Where’s Mason?” I ask, my shoulders dropping.

“He had to work this evening.”

Mason never worked on the days he had Ellis. I wonder if it has anything to do with Sunday. If I’m being honest, this suits me better. Last week was an emotional roller coaster.

“Did Ellis go down okay?”

“Yeah, he did actually.” He smiles proudly. “How was work?”

“Same old.” I shrug, then remember Rochelle’s comment. “Hey! Did you have anything to do with getting me a job at the hotel? My manager seems to think I’m there as a favour.”

A devilish smirk takes over his face. “What a favour that was.”

“Eww! That’s gross, Ell. She’s catty! She actually told me she hates me today.”

“She always did use her claws. Rochelle’s alright, you just have to learn how to tame her.” He waggles his brows.

“Oh god,” I snort. “I’m disappointed. You don’t still go there, do you?”

“Only when I have to, and you’re welcome by the way.”

I shake my head, leaving him in the lounge and going to the kitchen. Elliot follows, taking an apple from the fruit bowl.

“Did Mason mention anything about Joey today? He turned up when he dropped Ellis off on Sunday and then he just left. I think he was pissed.”

“Nah, Lowell’s had his hands full in the office this week, that’s all. Don’t take it personally.”

“Hands full with what?”

He takes a bite of his apple, not answering me, when his eyes meet mine, he raises them in question. “What’s he been busy with?” I ask again.

“Nothing you need to worry your pretty head about.” He leans over the edge of the breakfast bar and kisses my forehead. “Have Maggie booked in for next weekend. I want everyone out for my birthday.”

“Will Mason be there?” I ask to his back as he walks away, as if he didn’t just drop that bombshell.

“Of course he will be.”

“Well, I won’t be.”

“Yes, you will, Pix—”

“Ell!”

“Sorry, I forget.”

I roll my eyes, moving around the island and walking him to the door. “I’ll see if Maggie’s free, but I’m not making any promises. I don’t think Mason, alcohol, and me, is a good idea.”

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