Page 36 of Don't Fall for the Goalie
“At this point, we can’t even work remotely. The servers were destroyed.”
My heart sinks. “I’m so sorry to hear that.”
“I wish I had better news. I’ll keep you updated.”
“Thanks. I appreciate it.”
“Well... enjoy your unexpected vacation.”
Vacation. Right.This is anything but.
I force a fake laugh and then end the call.
The publishing job I worked so hard for seems like a distant dream. And for the first time, I fear that it’s about to vanish.
And then what will I do?
Great. Can this day get any worse?
I start limping toward the table when I see it. Tabitha is at the booth, talking and laughing with Daltyn. He has a smile on his face.
He doesn’t see me.
I whirl around, heading to the bathroom. I just need tocry for a few minutes. Then I’ll go back there and pretend not to be miserable.
By the time I return to the table, a plate of pancakes and bacon is waiting for me. I barely have an appetite at this point, but I couldn’t hide out in the bathroom forever. Daltyn would’ve probably sent Tabitha after me, and I’m in no mood to go to jail for punching that flirty bitch in the mouth.
I slide into my seat, flashing a fake smile at Daltyn. My eyes drop to my food. “Looks good.”
“Are you okay?”
I grip my fork harder than necessary. “Fine.”
He blows out a breath. “I’m sorry about?—”
“No worries,” I cut in, my voice fake with a cheeriness I don’t feel. “Let’s just eat.”
Silence falls over the table.
I barely taste the food but go through the motions anyway.
“The phone call.” Daltyn’s voice causes me to jolt. “Who was it?”
I look up at him. “Work.”
“Oh. Are you able to work remotely?”
I wish I’d never told him that.
I shake my head. “Not yet. My boss said he’ll keep me posted.”
He stares at me. “He must’ve said more. You were gone for eleven minutes.”
I still, my fork halfway to my mouth.
“That’s... oddly specific.”
He just stares at me.
