Roger must misinterpret the look on my face, because he adds, “Don’t worry, I’m sure you’ll pass the test with flying colors.”

I inwardly scoff. Pity you just failed on all counts, Roger dear.

And I’m in for one miserable dinner—no Lucas to distract me this time.

As I sit down with a tight smile, I make two terrifying realizations. First, I went on a date with the new Norman Bates, and enjoyed myself so much I’d agreed to a rematch. And second, I’m inexplicably relieved things won’t work out with Roger.

Why?

I will not think about that kiss.

Twenty-two

Lucas

I didn’t rest well last night. It took me hours to fall asleep, tossing and turning in bed, tormented by images of Vivian on her stupid date. And when I finally passed out, she invaded my dreams, making my slumber none the more restoring. She truly put a spell on me.

By morning, I’m so tired I don’t hear the alarm go off, and am only waking up now because Max, my rescue Jack Russell terrier, is gently licking my cheek.

My eyes fly open, and I roll over to check the bedside clock. Whoops, I’m an hour late for his usual bathroom run.

I scratch him behind the ears, saying, “Sorry, buddy, give me just a minute and we’ll be out.”

No time for a run, but I still have to walk Max.

As if sensing I could use a bit of male solidarity, Max gives me another small lick and drops his muzzle on my shoulder, whining.

“Thank you, buddy, but no, nothing you can do. I need to sort this out myself.”

As the day progresses, my mental status doesn’t improve. I spend the first hour at the office tensely listening for any sound outside and relax and tense simultaneously when I finally hear the click-clack of Vivian’s heels on the landing. Is that the walk of a woman coming back from a wonderful date, or from a lousy kisser? I’m no Louboutin whisperer, so I’ve no way of telling.

The need to know what happened last night with Roger keeps haunting me so much that, at lunch, I call Garrett and ask him if he’s in the mood for a drink after work. If anyone can give me the inside scoop, it’s him.

***

We meet at the Full Shilling as always and order beers at the bar. I spend the first twenty minutes making casual chit-chat so as not to appear too suspicious: how are things at work, have you guys set a date for the wedding, is Leslie driving you crazy with the planning, yadda, yadda, yadda…

When Garrett asks me how the new office is, I jump at the opportunity to introduce the topic that I came here to discuss.