“Hmm.” Justine looks over my shoulder at the door. “Dangerous but beautiful, huh.”
“You should’ve seen him,” I say dreamily but can’t escape reality. “He kicked me out on my good girl ass. Saw right through my act.”
“I hope it’s not the guy who just entered.” She put the ketchup away. “If it is then you’re better off without him. I know him through friends.”
I whirl around. “Shit.” The door shuts behind him, and Chad slides into a booth. He hasn’t seen me yet and maybe if I’m lucky and pray hard enough, he won’t recognize me. He won’t remember the girl with the pink hair. He won’t remember that I was the same girl.
Hiding behind Justine, I study him. The way he slumps in his seat, his head resting on his hands with his fingers spread throughout his hair. He doesn’t look so tough right now. In fact, he looks like he could use a friend.
Justine nudges me with her elbow. “Don’t even think about it. In fact, run as far away as you can. He’s bad news.”
She meant her words to strike fear in my heart, so I’ll turn away. I’ll lose my boredom and suddenly be happy with my life, but they do the complete opposite. He’s a verified bad boy, reputation and all. Yet, as he sits there, emotion rolling off him, all I can see is a guy who needs a friend. A guy who can offer me a little excitement. Maybe last night he just didn’t like the pink hair… Yes, that must be it. Where would the unsinkable Molly Brown be today if she’d let something like rejection get her down?
I decide not to approach him yet, but let him sit in his misery, so when I present myself, I’m more like a breath of fresh air. Or I could be using that as possible procrastination, because I’m not sure I can handle another flat out rejection.
I take orders, pour coffee, clear tables, all while sneaking glances at Chad. He’s barely moved. When I bring in a stack of dirty dishes, Justine corners me.
“What are you thinking? I told you he was bad news. A complete ass.”
“Was I that obvious?”
“Yes. You can’t keep your eyes off him.”
“I can’t help it. What if I was meant to witness his accident? Maybe he needs a good girl in his life.” Maybe he needs me just as much as I need him. He just doesn’t know it yet.
“I see the look on your face. What are you planning?” She nods to a customer and gathers a few menus to seat them.
“I don’t know exactly.” I run a finger along the edges of my apron. “Just that maybe he could use a friend.”
Justine gives me a hug. “Everyone needs a second or third chance, but if I catch one whiff of him hurting you, I’ll be your worst best friend.”
I salute her then point to the tables. “Customers?”
“Fine. Why don’t you take your break now and bring him his refill of coffee.”
I stifle a squeal. “Thanks. You’re the best!” I smooth out my apron and run fingers through my hair. Obviously, last night was the wrong approach. Maybe, even if he doesn’t realize it, he’s looking for a good girl. He might’ve pushed any girl aside last night. That must be it. Then armed with a coffeepot, I head toward his table.
Two feet away, he looks up. Surprise lightens his face and then it passes and shadows take its place. Like a storm crossed his face just at the sight of me. Hmpf. Guess he likes to be a challenge.
I slide into the booth. “Hi.” My voice sounds breathless and nervous. I tuck my hands under my legs or I’ll do something stupid like fiddle with the napkins or try to hold his hand.
“I’m a liar.” The words shock me. I didn’t mean to be so blunt. Wait. Who am I kidding? That’s what I’m known for. Might as well be myself. “Well, not really a liar even though it might seem it to you especially since I told you I was and then told you I wasn’t…” I look up and see confusion. I sigh. “Let me start again.”
“Why not?” he says dryly, and glances at the door.
“I’m not the person you met last night.”
He laughs, but it’s not a joyful sound, more like the sarcastic response of someone tired of life. “Could’ve fooled me.”
“No, I mean…” I stumble over my words. Why is this so hard? “I mean I am, but I’m not. I was trying to be a bad girl last night. I was trying but I failed miserably. I couldn’t even pretend to be a sex goddess without you seeing through my act.”
He lifts an eyebrow.
Maybe I should’ve left out the sex goddess part and the fact that I basically said I didn’t really like him. I rush to correct my words. “I mean it wasn’t an act. I loved every moment of being with you. Not that we had sex or anything.” My face must be blinking red I’m so embarrassed. Justine was right. He’s out way out of my league. “Never mind. Just leave. I just thought you looked like you could use a good girl in your life. And I sure as hell need some excitement.”