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Hayden: Yeah, my dad is trying to tear down the building she lives in. Gonna ask him to reconsider

Mike: And you think he’ll listen?

Hayden: No. Not at all. But I’ll try

Mike: For Robin?

Hayden: Yeah

Mike: Aren’t you sweet? So, you’re together or something?

Hayden: No, we’re not. I’m just trying to do the right thing

Mike: Riiiiiiiiiiiiight.

Hayden: Shut up

Mike: I just needed that affirmation that I was right.

Hayden: You’re never right

Mike: Remember how I said she was your type? Now you’re talking to your estranged father at A GALA for her? You got it bad.

Hayden: No comment

Mike: Invite me to the wedding.

Hayden: I’m blocking you

Mike: Stay in denial. I’m just looking forward to being right again.

Chapter 20

Hayden

I’m dirty from head to toe, covered in grease, and I’m pretty sure it’s in my hair too. I’ve been spending most of the day at the garage, working away while avoiding conversation. It’s not that I usually talk a lot, but me and Jon do chitchat a bit throughout the day.

Today, I’m in a mood though, and he seems to sense it, so he’s been giving me space. The gala is tonight, and while I’m thrilled to see Robin, I’ve been frustrated and angry all day. My mind has been creating a bunch of different scenarios of how tonight could go, and I haven’t been able to imagine a positive outcome.

Robin and I met three times this week to go over party plans, and every time we hang out, I’m reminded that she’s worth whatever happens tonight.

“You better not forget to shower before the big event tonight.” Mike appears next to me.

I lift my head and give him a smile. He’s in his workout clothes, which seems to be his usual attire on his days off, a six-pack in his arms.

“What a nice surprise,” I say, wiping my hands in my jeans. “How did you know I was here?”

“A lucky guess.” He shrugs, waving at Jon, who’s working on a Toyota in the corner. “I figured you’d probably try to distract yourself today. I know this is your safe space.”

“Yeah.” I nod, accepting the beer he hands me. “Are you trying to get me drunk before the gala?”

Jon walks up and fist-bumps Mike. “I hope you brought one for me too.”

“Obviously,” Mike says, handing him one. “How’s it been going here?”

“Good, good,” Jon says, rubbing his jaw. “This one’s been a grumpy ass all day though.” They look down at me with pitiful eyes where I’m crouched next to the motorcycle I’ve been working on.

“Hey, I’m right here,” I growl, not having the energy to get up.