Page 10 of The Deal Breaker
The funny thing was, if Iris wanted to do those things, Henry would take her. As a friend or a plus-one. It wouldn’t matter to him. He enjoyed having fun and the more outlandish the activity the better.
Dash, however, turned down her suggestions to go to the movies or a restaurant, so she’d stopped asking. They no longer ate meals together at the house. Something they used to do whenever they could.
She’d been so blind. Their friendship had become completely lopsided. The realization saddened her but provided more proof she needed to move on and follow her own path.
Iris focused on Henry, not knowing what kind of game he was playing tonight, but she would go along with it for now. “How should I dress tomorrow?”
“Warm because we’ll be in and out.”
Dash’s gaze bounced between her and Henry, but his expression revealed nothing that he might be feeling.
“I can do that.” A mix of rain and snow was expected, but she’d been born and raised in Portland. An umbrella wasn’t necessary. “What time?”
Henry tilted his head as if contemplating one of life’s greatest questions. “I don’t wake up until eleven, so let’s say noon.”
“What about my lunch?” Dash asked.
Really? That was what he wanted to know?
She inhaled and then exhaled slowly. “Saturday is my day off. I’ll leave a plate for you in the refrigerator the way I always do.”
His jawline tensed. “If it’s easier for you, I can grab something myself.”
“Well, isn’t that nice of you to offer?” Henry didn’t sound pleased at all. “I’m sure Raina will bring you lunch if you ask her.”
“She’s at a bachelorette weekend.” Dash’s words rushed out.
That was the first Iris had heard about that. No wonder he’d hosted poker night and was worried about lunch. Still, that wasn’t her problem.
“I hope you’re not missing your girlfriend too much.” Henry pulled Iris closer and brushed his lips over her hair. “I’m looking forward to tomorrow.”
Dash’s face hardened. His nostrils flared.
“Is there a problem?” Henry asked.
“No.” Dash’s balled fist told another story. He must miss Raina.
Not surprising. The two spent much of his free time together.
“Is there anything you need me for this weekend?” Iris made his meals, but she had the weekends to herself unless he was entertaining or one of his friends hired her to cater a party.
“Other than the usual, no,” Dash said. “Ready to go, Henry?”
Henry kept his arm around her. “What makes you think I’m leaving?”
Dash rocked back on the heels of his tennis shoes. “Iris is tired.”
At least he noticed that. She nodded. “I am.”
“Then you should sleep.” Henry let go of her. “We have tomorrow to talk.”
“Yes.” Because she didn’t want Dash around when they spoke. “If you’re running late, let me know.”
“I will.” Henry kissed her forehead. “Sweet dreams tonight. You’ll be living one tomorrow.”
Iris laughed. Henry should write a book with all his lines. “Can’t wait.”
Dash shook his head.
