Total pages in book: 64
Estimated words: 60497 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 302(@200wpm)___ 242(@250wpm)___ 202(@300wpm)
Estimated words: 60497 (not accurate)
Estimated Reading Time in minutes: 302(@200wpm)___ 242(@250wpm)___ 202(@300wpm)
He nods thoughtfully. “I take it your brother approved.”
I purse my lips, unsure how he’ll like my answer. “Actually, Jack will be out of town, so I’ll be working with Lucas. I have an appointment, but I’ve yet to run the idea by him fully.”
He runs a hand over his face in silence. I know that’s Dad’s thinking expression.
“Are you sure a nightclub is the best venue for this?” he asks.
I nod. “Yes. I was there Saturday night and it’s perfect.” I think back to that evening and despite being tipsy, I scouted the place thoroughly.
He smiles. “I have no doubt you checked it out.”
I also got a little too close to Lucas, though I doubt my father would want to hear about that. Nor would he want to know I’d somehow, in my inebriated state, kissed Lucas on his cheek. The razor stubble brushed my lips and when I’d inhaled, he’d smelled delicious. Arousal washed over me and I’d had a hard time falling asleep, my thoughts consumed with him. Thanks to that kiss, as platonic as it was, I dread having to face him when we meet to discuss work. So much for being the complete professional, and though I want to groan, I do not want my father asking me what’s wrong.
Taking my mind off Lucas isn’t easy, but I refocus on the 50th anniversary plans. “Midnight has three floors and the rooftop, assuming it’s a nice night. It’s large, has the huge dance floor on the first level, bars on the others. Not to mention it benefits them if they agree. If we start the 50th celebration there, we can keep them involved throughout the season, have them sponsor some giveaways, and be part of the end-of-season celebration.” There. That put me back on track.
“I’m sure Jack would agree. And Lucas, too. I’m just uncertain about the nightclub aspect,” Dad says.
I rub my hands on my slacks, knowing I have more in my arsenal to entice him. “See how you like this. By establishing a connection with a local business, we can tie the anniversary into the team’s community outreach program. I know you and Uncle Alex are big on concussion protocol, and we can raise money for the high schools in the area while we celebrate the team this year.”
He raises his eyebrows and a wide grin spreads across his handsome face. Even I know my dad is good-looking. It’s been pointed out to me often enough. I take after him with the color of my eyes only. The rest of me, curves and hair color, is all Mom. And I have no complaints at all.
“I think it’s a fabulous idea, my brilliant daughter.” He leans in closer to me. “Now, tell me why you look like you’re exhausted and haven’t slept.” His hand brushes across my cheek.
And there’s the overprotective dad I know and love. “I’m fine. I was out late Friday night and worked all weekend on the details of the Thunder anniversary, that’s all.”
He narrows his gaze. “Fine. But get some sleep,” he orders.
I don’t roll my eyes. I’d never be outright disrespectful to Dad. “I’ll try,” I say.
“Good enough.”
“I have to get to the office,” I tell him.
He rises to his feet and I do the same. “Now give your old man another hug and promise you’ll come home for dinner soon.”
I smile. “That, I can do. Bye, Dad.” I leave on a high, feeling proud of myself. I’ve never found it difficult to make my parents proud, but this time? Knowing it’s been hard-earned? I’m floating.
I stop by a drive-through Starbucks on my way back to my office, picking up an iced venti chai latte for me, a regular latte for Ashlynn, and Kaylee’s favorite flavored drink. By the time I arrive at the office, it’s almost ten but I’ve already let them know I’ll be in late.
I push open the door and walk into my office, pausing by Ashlynn’s desk. “Hi, Ashlynn. How are you?” I ask. “I got you a regular latte.” I place the cup on her desk.
She slides her dark hair off her shoulders and smiles. “Thank you! That’s so sweet. And I’m good, thanks. You?”
“I’m great,” I tell her.
She grins. “Kaylee told me the good news. Congratulations.”
I nod. “Thank you.” I keep walking and join Kaylee in our shared office space. “An iced venti caramel latte for you,” I say, handing her the large cup.
“I love you! I’ve been dragging since I woke up on Saturday.” She flops back in her chair.
Laughing, I lower myself into the seat behind my desk. “Tell me about it. My father called me out for looking tired. No wonder I rarely drink more than one glass of alcohol anymore.”
“Ah, the perks of getting older,” she says.
“Bite your tongue. We’re not ancient.” I shudder at the thought, though the idea of turning thirty is a gut punch.