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They both giggled, and Marissa moved forward as the line moved.
“Who knows, maybe you two can move past the platonic stage into something more. And for the record, despite what Chet said, there is a Bruno out there for you somewhere, but you have to be open to the idea.”
Marissa didn’t want ‘a Bruno.’ She wanted the Bruno.
“I need to stay my butt in Atlanta and work on reorganizing my closet,” she said firmly.
Lark rested one fist on her hip. “Okay girlfriend, time for some tough love.”
“Again?”
“Yes. You always prioritize everyone else. First your brother when you were growing up, then you made sure he finished college and got through dental school, and now your son. When are you going to prioritize your own happiness?”
“I do prioritize my happiness.”
“No, you don’t,” Lark said gently. “You’re doing what a lot of women do—letting your life revolve around your kid.”
“Of course!” A few heads turned, and Marissa lowered her voice. “Every decision I make affects Theo. You’re not a parent, so you wouldn’t understand.”
“I’m your friend, and for years I’ve watched you put your life on hold because of Theo. Enjoy yourself. Go on the trip with Chef Hot and Sexy. When was the last time you had an all-expenses paid trip anywhere, hmm?”
Marissa gnawed on her lip. “What if he expects something from me?”
“Did he give you any indication that he expects sex? And if he does, you have a choice. You say no… or not.” A mischievous glint entered her eyes.
“I’m not sleeping with him. I can’t.”
“Oh right, those silly company rules.”
“They’re not silly. They’re in place for a reason.”
“What are you going to do? Time is ticking.” Lark tapped her wrist though there wasn’t a watch there. “Theo leaves for Disney World in a couple of weeks, and while he’s gone, you could be in L.A. having fun. What do you think Lindsay the Sexy Diva would tell you to do?” Lark asked.
“She would say go for it,” Marissa muttered.
“Exactly! She. Would. Say. Go. For. It.” Lark looked expectantly at Marissa.
“I guess I could go.”
“Of course you can. Have fun and don’t beat yourself up.”
Marissa groaned and buried her face in her hands.
“If your client doesn’t expect anything but your company, go and enjoy the free trip.”
Marissa peeked through her fingers. “This is a really bad idea, but… I’ll do it.”
“Yes!” Lark dropped her voice. “And if you happen to hook up while you’re there…”
“Lark…”
“I’m kidding! I’m happy for you.” Lark squealed and did a little shimmy.
“Who’s the bad influence now?” Marissa asked with an arched eyebrow.
Lark hugged her. “You’re going to have fun, and then when you come back, you’re going to tell me all about your trip. Now give me a piece of candy. I’m starving, and I know you have some.”
Marissa dug in her purse and handed her six Hershey’s kisses with cookies and creme.
