shit. Workouts, drills, watching films. First pre-season game is in a week. I’ll probably play one quarter.”
“I’ll be watching for at least one quarter then.” I smile proudly at him and look at Shaw. “Your turn.”
We turn to him, waiting for the exciting adventures of a high-profile sports agent. He gets to jet set around the country, meeting famous—or soon to be famous—sports stars.
“Working on the power drink endorsement for Nick. We should have that signed soon. I have a few potential clients on the west coast of Florida. Heading to Tampa and St. Petersburg in two weeks.”
“I’ve heard St. Petersburg is beautiful. I’ve never been.” I sigh.
“Come with me.”
His statement shocks me, and I inhale mid-sip. I start to choke, wine spraying everywhere. “W-w-what?” I stutter.
“Jesus, say it, don’t spray it.” Nicky wipes his cheek.
“Sorry,” I apologize, my face burning. “I thought Shaw invited me on his business trip.”
“I did, and it won’t be all business.”
“I can’t.” My mind scrambles, trying to think of believable excuses.
“Why?” Mathis asks. “You have plenty of vacation and hardly ever use it. Nurse Evie told us in a staff meeting last week she’s going to mandate the nurses use their personal time. Your PTO bank is full, and if you don’t use it, you’ll lose it.”
Mathis is a traitor. He totally ruined that excuse.
“Sounds pretty easy to me.” Shaw sits back, raising an eyebrow and waiting.
“There’s no way to get the time off with this short notice,” I throw at him.
“That’s a shame. Would have been nice to have you with me, and I’ve owed you a vacation for ten years. Not sure if the area is considered tropical, but they have gorgeous beaches and terrific nightlife.” His eyes trap mine, testing me.
The memory of me teasing him the first time we met plays in my mind. I can’t help but grin at the expression on his face. Little does he know that I still use that with my patients. It helps break the ice and usually gets me a smile.
“It’s done. She’s off Thursday through Monday.” Mathis drops his phone on the table. “Evie approved.”
“Did you text my boss requesting vacation time?” I start to panic. There’s no way I can do this. My heart can’t sustain a weekend with Shaw alone, especially since one compliment in my kitchen led my pathetic imagination to run wild.
“Seriously, Bizzy, what’s the problem? You’ve vacationed with us forever.” Nicky puts a hand on my shoulder.
I don’t look at him for fear he’ll see right through me. I’ve hidden my crush for years, and he can’t discover it now.
“But it’s been all of us together. I’d hate to be a bother. Shaw needs to work.”
“No bother. We’ll have our own rooms if that makes you more comfortable.”
I’m stuck. There’s no way out. It will cause suspicion if I keep refusing.
“I’ll think about it.”
Each man smirks, knowing I’m giving up the argument.
“I’ll have Gail send you the details on Monday.” Shaw flashes a triumphant grin.
Chapter 3
Shaw
I take a sip of whiskey and look out across my balcony at the waves crashing in the surf. It’s rare that I’m home before dark, but today, I enjoy the sunset. The whole reason for buying this place was the view. Even though the inside is top of the line, it’s the view that I paid a mint for.
I think back on the day I made an offer. My mom and Bizzy ran around with stars in their eyes. They had plans for this place… I had no idea what I was getting into.
When I signed the papers, they went wild. Bizzy may be a nurse by trade, but she could have been an interior decorator. My place is exactly what I wanted. There’s a strong masculine presence in every room, but it is comfortable. My favorite places are the balcony and my bedroom. I realize now, it’s because Bizzy put her stamp on every inch of these two places.
My bedroom is devoted to family, with pictures of my life everywhere. The warm colors of the walls and bedding reflect what she calls ‘my style’.
The balcony is a contradiction. The bright cushions on the wicker furniture, alongside the outside bar, are completely out of my comfort zone. There are wall decorations on almost every stucco surface, reminding me of glamorous hotels and resorts. But I find myself drawn to the area mostly because it is a reflection of her.
Now, I stare at the water and try to wrap my head around