Page 74 of The Deal Breaker
Their friendship was growing stronger. No, it wasn’t the same as it had been, but there was a bonus.
The kisses…
Those were the cherries on top of a decadent hot fudge sundae with scoops of her favorite ice cream and freshly made whipped cream. Only, the kisses had no calories so she could splurge often.
And did.
Iris went into the kitchen to find Tony standing at the island. He appeared to have everything under control. He’d even filled bowls with candy, nuts, and chips. But the pizzas on the counter…
She eyed each one, cataloging the ingredients. Pesto sauce, mozzarella cheese, sundried tomatoes, artichoke hearts, and pine nuts. Italian sausage and pepperoni. Barbeque chicken with mozzarella, gouda, and red onion. “Wow, those pizzas look amazing.”
He flashed a lop-sided smile and added a few more pine nuts. “Wait until you taste them.”
She studied the one closest to her. “I’m sure, but that’s a lot for two of us.”
“Use the leftovers for your lunch tomorrow. These are better than anything you can buy.”
She wriggled her toes in anticipation of her move. “Great idea.”
Tony brushed his palms together. “I’ll see you around, but I want to say thanks again for this job. I love it, and two of Dash’s friends have booked me for weekend parties.”
“That’s wonderful.” Iris had finally decided to go to the Super Bowl party on Sunday, but she didn’t ask Tony about it in case he wasn’t doing that one. She snagged a piece of cheese.
He covered each pizza with plastic wrap. “I’ll stick these in the fridge. You know what to do with them.”
“Yes, but after this weekend, leave detailed instructions for Dash, since I won’t be here.”
“I remember. I’ve read through your binder twice.” Tony laughed. “But I have a feeling you’ll be back under this roof sooner rather than later.”
Leaving was bittersweet. Iris liked the three people she’d hired. Most of all, she enjoyed staying at Dash’s house and seeing him so much, but she couldn’t deny her excitement of moving into her own apartment. “True, we’ll hang out here more.”
Tony shook his head. “That’s not what I meant.”
Realization dawned. Her face heated. “I signed a year lease.”
“So? You’re dating a billionaire.”
Dating.
The word echoed through her. Iris had yet to describe what she and Dash were doing. Only one person had asked—Janice. Iris had said they were hanging out. That seemed an honest assessment, even if her affection kept deepening. Not using labels had been her idea to keep Dash from stressing out. But she couldn’t deny Tony saying they were dating sent a thrill shooting through her.
“You never know,” Iris said finally.
Tony winked. “I signed an NDA so you’re safe if you want to spill.”
She laughed. “When there’s something to tell, I will.”
The status quo was fine right now.
“I’m holding you to that.” Tony washed and dried his hands. “Happy moving day. Enjoy the new place.”
“Have a great weekend.”
As he left, Iris carried the snack bowls to the great room and then brought out the gaming chairs. Dash had a special room set up where he usually played, but she didn’t game intensely as he did. Using the system down here would be better.
Her cell phone buzzed. She read the text.
Dash:Leaving now.
