Page 280 of Bitter’s Sweet

“Your career does not need to sit around waiting for your love life to become convenient.”

I let out a slow breath.

“No.”

“Good. Because I already ordered another stool.”

I stare at her. “You what?”

“I had confidence.”

“That is manipulation.”

“That is furniture.”

“You were very sure.”

“I saw your work.”

I laugh.

Mercy walks toward the door.

“Think fast. I need an answer before I hire somebody less mouthy.”

“There are people less mouthy?”

“Several. I dislike them.”

She disappears into the hall.

I am still smiling when Nevermore appears a few minutes later.

“Hyde wants everybody in the garage.”

My smile fades. “Everybody?”

“Club. Mercy. You.”

“Why me?”

Nevermore's expression gives away nothing. “Ask Hyde.”

“That is deeply unhelpful.”

“Vice presidenting is an art.”

“You aren't president.”

“Exactly. Less paperwork.”

I untie my apron.

My stomach starts twisting as we cross the lot.

The last time I walked into that garage with this many brothers inside, Boogie accidentally called me Bitter’s girl.

Then Bitter made sure nobody would ever make that mistake again.