Page 16 of Sacked
Fin shook his head. “Seeing you happy is my goal.”
A lump of emotion grew in my throat. “I’m still sad. I’m both, if that makes sense.” Thoughts of my parents were another emotional battlefield I chose to keep outside our bubble.
He kissed my forehead. “It makes perfect sense.” He looked down at my shoes. “The restaurant is only a few blocks away. If you’d rather, we could drive?”
“No. I’ve been cooped up all day. Walking sounds nice.”
“Imagine the exhilaration of the autumn breeze beneath your dress…if you accepted my challenge.”
It was my turn to laugh. “I’ve been drowning in executive decisions all day and now, all I can think about is going back into the bathroom and taking off my panties.”
He winked his sapphire eye. “Mission accomplished.”
Chapter 7
Vee
* * *
Together, we rode the elevator to the garage level in hopes of missing any lingering reporters. There were only a few stragglers at Maker’s Mark’s gate when I left the football center. With the announcement of CEO and Dad’s funeral behind us, I hoped the number would go back to zero.
Holding onto Fin’s arm, together we walked northeast on West Vine. Our route was dotted with trees, their leaves bright with autumn colors, and large pots bursting with yellow and orange flowers. I lifted my chin to the fresh air. High above, the colors of the sparse clouds were morphing into vibrant shades of red and purple as they reflected the setting sun.
There were other people coming and going. No one paid attention to who anyone else was. We were all simply people enjoying the cooler evening.
Past large structures like Rupp Arena and the Hilton, we turned.
Tony’s of Lexington was in a three-story structure with a limestone façade. Fin opened the large wood doors as an array of delicious aromas filled our senses.
“Party of two for Graham,” Fin said to the hostess.
While I’d been inside the restaurant before, I stood in awe, taking the time to enjoy the beautiful woodwork, the large staircase that led to the second floor, the long bar to the left, and fine dining to the right.
“We can wait.”
I turned to Fin’s deep voice, missing the conversation.
He laid his hand in the small of my back and spoke low near my ear. “I asked for a private table upstairs. While we wait, we can get a drink.” His warm breath and deep tenor sent goose bumps scattering over my flesh.
Nodding, I allowed Fin to lead me to the left. Empty bar stools were available near the far end. After he helped me with my tall stool, Fin took a seat at my side.
“Have you been here before?” he asked.
“A few times. I always love how pretty the woodwork is.”
The bartender made his way toward us. “Welcome. I’m DeShawn. Would you like to see the drink menu?”
“I’ll just have a glass of cabernet,” I said.
“And a Kentucky Bourbon Barrel Ale for me.”
The bartender nodded and stepped away.
I took a deep breath and spoke low. “I’m assuming you heard about Aunt Rachel.”
Fin nodded. “I did. Consensus of the team is favorable. She’s a Hubbard and I assume you trust her.”
“I do. Honestly, it’s a weight off my shoulders for now. I know one day the position will be mine.” I shook my head and looked down.
