One week later
“Evie . . .” Margot keeps her voice low at this important, precedent-setting corporate event at the illustrious Long Multinational headquarters. “You might need a ride too, since I believe that’s your second double.”
I cling to my glass, amused as her quick hand manages to snatch it away. So what if I’m a little drunker than a skunk at a corporate event? I’m a volunteer. I’m entitled. Plus, it’ll probably be the only way I’ll get to sleep for the first time in a week.
I’ve run out of ideas of how to stop thinking about Austin. Or, for that matter, how to avoid Dimitri. He’s dropped by my house half a dozen times, so I did what any self-respecting and thoroughly mortified woman would do. I killed the lights, kept the curtains shut, and hid.
After Margot’s offer, I vaguely remember getting into the back seat of Coop’s car and passing out shortly thereafter. But when I come to, Margot and Coop—who play it off as mortal enemies whenever they’re in the boardroom—sound a lot closer than they’ve let on. Now, the two of them are suddenly going to Big Sur for a family gathering.
“So,” Margot says in her naturally raspy tone that I’ve always been jealous of, “I’m not the only one you spank?”
Nice. Sitting up a little straighter, I shake off my grogginess and listen closer.
Coop’s response corroborates my suspicions. “Well, all I know is that if Evie weren’t in the back seat, I’d be pulling over and we’d be back there. Where the hell is her house?”
“Not much farther,” I pipe up, ready to join the conversation. “So, when are we all going to Big Sur?” Because getting far away from the fiancé I can’t shake, and my neighborly temptation, is exactly what I need.
“Oh God.” Margot drops her head into her hands for a second as I hold my breath, eager for a favorable verdict.
After a few rounds of negotiations, I feel this escape plan is nearly in the palm of my hand. So I double down with a weapon I’ve used since Margot and I met in grade school, and it’s definitely her kryptonite.
Pulling out all the stops, I hand her my closing argument wrapped in an annoying whine. “You know if you say no, I’ll hunt you down and probably interrupt your most intimate and embarrassing moments. Just bring me like another piece of luggage. You won’t even know I’m there.”
“Why do I seriously doubt that?” Margot glances at Coop, a silent plea for reinforcements.
He totally caves, giving in to my demands with barely a protest. Sucker.
Which is perfect. The two men I’m avoiding like raw oysters, fake Birkins, and syphilis will both be in Dallas, and I’ll be in California. I’ll be able to sit back, relax, and know beyond a shadow of a doubt that steering clear of trouble will be a piece of cake.