My chest expands so much it feels like it’s going to crack.
Asher claps his hands, jolting me. “All right. What do you say we get this interview started, huh?”
It’s a little hard to switch gears after that, but I clear my throat and fold my hands on my lap.
“Absolutely. Anything you want to know about what I do and can provide, just ask.”
“Cheetos or Doritos?”
I was prepared to discuss marketing and social media footprints…not snacks.
However, this is Asher’s interview so he’s running the show.
“Um…Doritos.”
He rubs his chin. “Nacho or cool ranch?”
I squint, hoping my choice is the right answer. “Cool ranch.”
He slaps the desk. “Yes. Finally. Everyone always says nacho is superior but that’s basic bitch shit. Cool ranch has way more flavor.” His stare turns skeptical. “If you were a vegetable, what would you be?”
Seriously? “None of them.”
This intrigues him. “Why?”
“Because no one really likes vegetables, so no one would eat me.”
Oh, hell. I walked right into that one.
Asher smirks. “Damn, small fry. Points for creativity.” Picking up a pen, he writes something down on a pad. “What are your hours?”
Finally, a legitimate question. “Since I primarily work online and from home now, my hours can be whenever.”
“Nice. I admire the hustle.” He taps his pen. “What does Breslin love most about me?”
I’m not sure if I should tell him what he wants to hear, or be honest.
I go with honesty. “You saw her when no one else did.”
He waves a hand, indicating I should continue. “And?”
“Your big heart.”
“And?”
“Your ability to make her laugh and not take everything so seriously.”
“And?”
Ugh. What he wants to hear it is. “Your looks.”
“And?”
Oh, for the love of God. “Your…you know.”
He snickers. “I just wanted to see how many things I could get you to list. But hey, bonus points for those last two.” He holds up a finger. “Final question.” He does a dramatic drumroll on the desk. “Who’s your favorite Holden brother?”
“Preston.” Obviously.
He winces. “Ah. Points off for that.” Grinning, he opens his arms. “But everything else checks out. You’re hired.”
I jump up. “Really?”
“Yup. I’ll send you my login info for all my accounts tonight.”
“Perfect. I’ll get started the second you do.”
He stands. “Awesome.”
There’s a knock on the door before Landon walks in. “Your driver’s here to take you to the airport.”
Walking across the room, Asher grabs a duffel bag off the floor. “Thanks, rock star.”
“Where are you headed off to?”
Maybe I can make a post about it and generate some engagement with his fans.
“Camp.” He gives Landon a kiss. “I’ll be back in a week, though.”
“Have fun.”
I can’t help but smile on my short walk home because things are finally starting to come together.
“Who’s the best doggie in the whole wide world?” Rubbing Lola’s belly, I lean over and kiss his wet nose. “And who’s gonna go for a run with me soon?”
At that, Lola rolls back over and huffs, making his objections known.
“Come on. It won’t be that bad.”
I’m about to get his leash, but I hear the front door open.
Jumping to my feet, I race out of the living room so I can tell Preston the big news.
I’m sure he won’t be thrilled because of his animosity toward his brother, but once he sees how excited I am about it, I know he’ll be happy for me.
“Guess wha—”
Words die in my throat when I enter the foyer.
Preston’s home…but he’s not alone.
Jameson’s blue eyes are huge as he looks around in wonder.
The alarmed expression on Preston’s face tells me he’s just as surprised to see me. “I thought you had an interview?”
“I…uh…” I peer down at Jameson again. “It was next door, so it was quick.”
“Next door?”
“Yeah.” I can’t stop staring at the little boy holding Preston’s hand. “Your brother hired me to be his social media manager.”
“When were you planning on telling me about this?”
“After I got the job.” I peel my gaze away and look at my husband. “What are you doing here?”
Last I checked, it was forbidden for Preston to be around me. Obviously, we’re not following Becca’s dumb rule, but with Jameson being here…that might pose a potential issue.
Preston gestures to his T-shirt and I realize it’s covered in what appears to be colorful vomit. “I took Jameson to the carnival and he went a little crazy with the cotton candy. He ended up puking on me…exorcist style.”
Eek.
My eyes flick back to the boy. “Are you okay?”
I know Preston said he doesn’t speak, but I don’t like the thought of talking about him like he isn’t here when he’s right in front of us.
Jameson doesn’t answer, but he’s eyeing me with keen interest. No doubt wondering who the hell I am.
Preston ruffles his hair a little. “He’s fine. Aren’t you?”
Jameson gives him a nod and Preston leads him up the stairs. “I’m gonna change real quick and then we’ll be gone.”
I want to tell them to stay because Jameson is no longer a mythical creature. He’s here and he’s real.
And I want so badly to get to know the kid my husband adores.
I’m trying to think of possible suggestions that might make them stay when the doorbell rings.
Landon’s on the other side of it, looking sweaty and disheveled. “Please tell me Preston is home.”
As if on cue, Preston comes back down the stairs.
Landon’s eyes are saucers when they land on Jameson. “Never mind.”
He’s about to leave, but I halt him. Preston might not be able to help, but maybe I can. “What’s up?”
He blows out a breath. “I’m converting the basement into a music studio, and the speakers I ordered ended up coming early. I need some help moving them into the house.” He hikes a thumb behind him, gesturing to the storm clouds rolling in. “Sooner rather than later.”
That seems easy enough. “I can help.”
His face scrunches. “No, you can’t. The speakers are not only wide and bulky, they weigh more than you do.”
I’m strong but not that strong.
His eyes shift to Preston. “It’s why I came here to ask if you could assist.” They drop to Jameson. “But I’ll figure something else out.”
I can see Preston mulling this over in his head. Landon isn’t the type to ask for help. Ever. Not to mention, he saved both our lives.
Which is no doubt why Preston agrees. “I’ll give you a hand.” He looks at Jameson. “We’re gonna go to my buddy Landon’s house for a little—”