Page 44 of Chasing the Dream

“You’re putting me in an awkward situation.”

“With whom? Your boss?”

“Well, I do work for him.”

“Is he in charge of your social life too?”

What social life? She hadn’t had much of a social life until recently. Still, she knew Gabe would be furious if she went to lunch with Bryan. But did he have a right to be?

“If it would make you feel better, we could have lunch on a Saturday so you won’t be on the clock. What do you say?”

She said the first thing that sprang to mind. “I’m going to Flagstaff this weekend.”

“Oh, yeah? Beautiful area. Who are you going with?”

“My friend Maria.” She left it at that, not wanting him to know that Gabe was going too.

“The following weekend, then.”

“I’ll let you know.”

He smiled and stood up, seemingly appeased for now. “I’ll look forward to hearing from you. Oh, and by the way—love the outfit.” Then he turned and sauntered out the door, leaving her standing in the lobby, wondering what she’d just agreed to.

Chapter 14

Gabe stewed over the meeting with Bryan for the rest of the day. He hated that the guy had basically given him an ultimatum, indicating that he would only sign a contract if he could continue working with Morgan. But even worse, he hated the way Bryan looked at her, like she was a slice of pie he wanted to add to his dessert menu.

He was angry at Morgan too. She’d played right into the guy’s hands by agreeing to work with him after she returned to Michigan, and she’d put Gabe in a tough spot. He had no good reason to refuse, and if he did, she’d be pissed at him. She’d put a lot of work into this, and knowing how determined she was, he doubted she’d back down. Now they were driving home, and he dreaded the confrontation they were about to have.

“I take it you weren’t happy with the meeting,” Morgan said, broaching the subject first.

“No, I wasn’t.”

“I don’t want to argue with you, Gabe. You’re my boss, and I respect your opinion, so just come out with it.”

“You want my opinion? Fine. The guy’s an ass, and he wants a piece of yours.”

She gaped at him, noting the tick in his jaw and the tight set of his shoulders. “That’s a bit…harsh.”

“He’s wanted you since you walked into his bar, and if we agree to his terms, he’ll be in constant contact with you.”

“Even if what you say is true, it doesn’t matter. It won’t go anywhere without my consent.”

“I still don’t like it.”

“Tell him no, then. It’s your business and your prerogative.”

“Then I’ll look like the ass.”

“What do you want, Gabe? Tell me.”

Talk about a loaded question! He pulled into Maria’s driveway, shut off the car, and started to get out.

“Where are you going?” Morgan asked.

“Inside. We’re not done talking.”

“But…”