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“Jolene?”
“Huh? What?” I finally turn my attention to Debbie.
“Can I get you anything else, honey?” She glances back to where I was looking.
“Yeah. You can kick that ass out of my bar.” I nod toward Lincoln, and she chuckles.
“Wish I could, but he’s been very good for business given that everyone in town wants to meet him and he keeps showing up here.”
I wonder if he purposely told this girl to meet him here so he could flaunt her in front of me.
He had no idea I’d be here. He probably thinks I should be home with my kid, and I would be if he wasn’t at his father’s house this weekend.
Still, I have no idea who this mystery woman is…but I will find out later tonight when I stalk his social media to see if he’s ever been pictured with her before.
CHAPTER 25: LINCOLN
It's incredible how one second of a day can be the thing that throws everything out of balance.
I’m just a guy minding my own goddamn business, flying home after an incredible weekend with my family where I feel closer to my brothers than I have in years—maybe ever—despite the awkward conversation I had with my father, and I’m ready to get back to work. I’m ready to work out the trade deal to get Asher on the Aces. I’m ready to find a place for Grayson and make a proposal to him if he’s really ready to hang it up.
I’m ready to put my focus on my new team.
My dad was right, as much as it pains me to admit that. I need to keep my distance from the female reporters. It’s not just my dad’s reputation at stake…it’s mine, too. The last thing I want to do is cause any drama at all. Feelings two decades old might’ve resurfaced, but that doesn’t mean I have to act on them. I’m a grown man with plenty of self-control.
Except when it comes to Jolene Bailey.
Fuck.
When the plane lands, I spot a text from Jess.
Jess: I’m in Vegas! Can I see you?
After a weekend away, I have shit to catch up on, but I can probably squeeze in a drink. To that end, I text Jack first to see if he has time for a meeting this evening, and when he responds in the affirmative, I text Jess to let her know I can meet her across the street from my office around seven.
And wouldn’t you know it?
When I walk in the place, there sits Jolene, watching me greet an old friend with something akin to jealousy on her face.
Okay, so Jess is more than an old friend, I guess. She’s not old, and she certainly wants to be more than a friend.
I’ve got a season to focus on. A new job to focus on.
But on the other hand, I like the idea of distraction, and I know Jess can give me that. She’s not a local reporter who will only stir up drama.
I know I shouldn’t use Jess. And so that’s why I’m honest with her.
“An ex is sitting across the way from us if you’d like to put on a show with me.” My eyes are on said ex as I say the words, and she’s definitely watching us.
The rage on Jolene’s face is nearly comical. She’s good at playing straight-faced when it matters, but clearly right now is not one of those times.
I lead Jess over to the bar, where we each order a drink.
“So what are you doing in town?” I ask.
“Remember I told you the partners are thinking about opening a division here? They sent me to do some research.” She shrugs. “I figured who better to show me around town than a local.”
I laugh. “I wouldn’t classify myself as a local. Yet.”
