“I think I need to file a formal complaint about harassment.” I scrambled to my feet. “This night is over.”
Blake’s hand landed on my shoulder. “I’m sorry. That was over the line, but I have thirty-five more minutes to annoy you before our deal is complete. Otherwise I will just hound you until you finally go out with me again and we can start this process all over.”
Letting out a long sigh, I slumped back into my chair.
“So, other than the whole fiery-chemistry-bullshit thing you think we have going on, why do you really think we would make such a great couple? Because all I see is two coworkers who should keep their distance from one another from this day forward.”
“Well, let’s state the obvious: you’re gorgeous. That one is a freebie, a no-brainer. Also, we’re both desperately passionate about molding young minds. We’re both intelligent, driven, in our thirties, and possibly the only two competent singles in this area.”
The last bit made it all click.
“So, I am the last girl on earth who is single and in your league, so you’re settling. Got it.” I shook my head, grabbing my purse. “I think your hour is up.”
Blake’s eyes softened. “Sometimes I don’t come off as well intentioned as I want to. Look, Caroline, I really do like you. I like you for you, not because we’re single, though that does help. It’s not because you’re stunning, though that helps too, and it’s not because I am your boss, though that is wrong on so many levels. I feel a complete and total connection with you that I have never felt with anyone else in the world, and I just want a chance to prove it to you.”
There it was, the second time since I had met Blake Hartigan that he seemed like a real person.
“Why don’t you act like that more often?” I asked quickly.
“Like what?”
“Like a decent, honest man.”
Blake ran his hand up the back of his neck. “I didn’t realize I was that bad.”
I pursed my lips. “And that is why we would never be able to work. I’m sorry, Blake.”
He bowed his head. “At least I tried.”
“You really are a persistent one. I will give you that.”
With that, I left the bar, ignoring all the texts and calls from my friends the entire way home.