Wait, what? I flutter my eyes, trying to comprehend what he just said. “Excuse me?”
“You heard me. Drinks, be on time.” He stuffs his hands into his pockets as he towers over me.
“Why isn’t it a question?”
“Because it’s not. I already arranged the usual sitter for Lola.”
My jaw drops. “You what?”
He remains cool as a cucumber. “I know. I thought through all of the logistics, didn’t I?” He’s boldly proud.
“You can’t just order me to go with you.” I step closer to him, wanting to stand off.
“It’s work.”
Shaking my head, I’m going in all directions. “Still, everyone in the office will form theories about us.”
“Why? We’re just two professionals.” His face remains stoic.
Remembering that I still have a job to do, yet our lives are entwined, I’m wrestling with myself about how to swallow the connection to remain professional. “Fine,” I bite out.
Our attention flies to Foster, who returns with a napkin and a powdered pastry. His eyes travel between us. “Thought I could avoid this with you two, but I guess not,” he casually mentions before he bites into his food and proceeds to head to his desk. At least, he doesn’t appear too fazed.
“I was just leaving.” I begin to walk away, but Hayes gently stops me by touching my elbow.
“Just remember, Elodie. It’s only a matter of time,” Hayes mentions.
Instantly, my eyes blaze open, and my lips part from shock.
Damn it, I wasn’t dreaming.
Which also means he heard me.
Ignoring him and straightening my shoulders, I choose not to reply, and I leave.
I’m slightly riled when I get to my desk.
Blair appears the moment I manage to sit behind my desk.
“What’s up with you and Hayes Callahan? I was on my way back from the restroom, and I saw you both.” I’m not sure if she wants intel or is genuinely curious. I’m choosing option one.
I fix a smile. “Nothing. He had a meeting with Foster and asked about which floor has the best coffee,” I lied.
Lines form on her forehead, as it isn’t the answer she was expecting. “Wow, he can be pleasant. I’ve been hearing from people that he’s a little scary.”
Yeah, I know.
“Yeah? Is that what’s on the grapevine?”
She nods. “People on his floor find him a little intense, but somebody else said he just has a steely exterior and is actually a nice guy. Just, well, don’t give him subpar work, otherwise he will let you know.”
“That’s what people are saying?”
“Yep. See ya later.” She walks away.
Quickly, I unlock my computer screen and check my phone next to my keyboard. I notice a new email from the preschool.
Opening it, it takes one word to see that Lola now has a spot at the best preschool. Made possible by Mr. Demanding Drinks himself. I’m not even going to complain because it’sall for our daughter. It’s also a reminder of how much he wants to provide and care for her. But I mentioned the school very briefly, and less than forty-eight hours later, he made magic happen. It probably only took one call. Hayes always gets what he wants.