Page 46 of Whisper Sweet Nothings

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Carlino’s was my favorite restaurant back home. And I loved my grandparents and couldn’t wait to see them.

“That sounds great, Dad. Love you.”

“Love you.”

I ended the call and pulled out the mixer, because I wanted to make a bunch of cookie dough to refrigerate so Melody and I could make and decorate holiday cookies tonight to celebrate her finally being on holiday break.

Alexa was blasting Mariah Carey through the speaker when my phone vibrated on the counter.

Archie

Hey.

Hi. How’s work going?

I was trying to just act normal. Things had been weird this morning, and I hated it.

Archie

I’m sorry if I made you uncomfortable last night.

You didn’t.

Archie

It shouldn’t have happened.

Nothing actually happened.

Archie

It almost happened.

Okay. Well, I’m sorry it almost happened.

That was the best I could come up with. I was clearly the one who wanted it to happen, and he was clearly horrified by the almost kiss.

Archie

I wanted to see if you were available tonight to stay with Winnie. I have plans and thought I’d check with you before I ask my mom if she’s free.

Why would you ask your mom? I’m your nanny. You literally pay me to be available.

Archie

So you’re okay with working late tonight?

Yes. Melody and I are making holiday cookies tonight to celebrate her being on break. I’m happy to stay with her.

Tonight was Friday night. He clearly had a date. Why did I care? He didn’t owe me anything. Nothing had happened between us. He’d admitted he didn’t want it to.

Archie

Thank you. I’ll see you at the show.

I’ll see you there, boss.

Why did I write that? Maybe to remind myself that he was my boss.

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