Love Like Her (Against All Odds #3) - Claudia Y. Burgoa Page 0,25

face. Damn, it’s been so long, and I can still remember that day. I shake my head. This isn’t the time to bring up old memories or jump in bed with her. She’s in a vulnerable state.

Use your big head, Eros.

“Let’s talk about this business idea you have, but you want me to start. I hope you know that doesn’t make any sense,” I say, redirecting the conversation to a safe subject.

She heads to her room for her laptop. I do the same.

“Can I connect to your wi-fi?”

“The wi-fi password is YetisArereal#1. The y and the first a are uppercase.”

I burst into laughter, remembering the first time we met and how I had to explain to her they’re part of the Himalayan folklore. “You’re kidding me?”

“Nope. You can argue as much as you want, Mr. Wikipedia, but that’s my truth.” She challenges me with her gaze. “They. Are. Real. My password confirms it.”

“I don’t care if you have a pet unicorn. Just give me the real password so I can connect,” I dismiss her challenge.

“I already told you. You can be skeptical and remain in the dark.”

When I type it into my computer, it approves it. I glare at her. “But they aren’t real.”

“For a well-traveled man, your mind is too limited.” She laughs. “Plus, my passwords can’t be hacked by boring people like you.”

“Let me guess. Your computer’s password is: Iminlovewithaleprechaun69?”

I’m enjoying her laughter. We’re not making sense, but at least she’s relaxing. After we compose ourselves, she tells me more about her idea. We argue the pros and cons. I google a few things for preliminary research. I plan on getting in touch with Gil to see if he can help me with some of his connections.

We spend most of the night brainstorming names for the company, the mission statement, and the places where we could set it up.

It’s around two in the morning when I realize she’s fallen asleep. I shut down our computers. Carefully, I pick her up from the couch, set her on top of her bed, and cover her with the folded blanket that’s on top of the comforter.

“Sweet dreams,” I whisper, kissing the top of her head.

As I pick up my laptop, I notice the screen of her phone is illuminated. I grab it and read part of Dan’s text to her. “Sleep well. Try to be here around seven. Your—”

That’s all I can read. I wonder if her Dad is all right or if that’s the time they’ll be taking him to prep him for surgery. But what if it’s something else? Dan would’ve called if it was an emergency. My first interview isn’t until nine. I’ll wake up early, drive with her to the hospital, and wait until I know her dad is okay.

What is it about her that pulls me to her? It’s like destiny keeps bringing us together for one reason or another. I look at my computer and wonder if this trip wasn’t about the job but the business idea. I’ll talk to her about it tomorrow. I’m invested, but this is her brainchild. I can’t just take it away.

Chapter Thirteen

Eros

The text wasn’t an emergency. Otto wants to see her before they prep him for the surgery. When we arrive at the hospital, Otto and Dan are hugging. The scene is tender and heartbreaking too. The sadness weighing on Dan is palpable.

“Do you mind if I have a word with Liv?” I’m pretty sure he’s talking to Dan, but he definitely doesn’t want me there.

Instead of waiting for Liv, I head to the coffee shop across the street. I order two lattes and a tea. The three times Liv and I have been at a coffee shop, she asked for tea or smoothies. I buy a few pastries and head back with the drinks and food.

“Are they still talking?” I ask Dan.

He nods a couple of times.

“Here, I brought a latte for you.” I extend the cup holder.

He grabs a coffee and stares at the tray. “Liv prefers tea.”

I smile, feeling good about my choice. “No worries, that’s what I brought her.”

“Thank you for looking after Liv last night,” he mumbles. “I wish I could split myself in two. She’s afraid of losing her dad.”

“You’re afraid of losing both,” I guess.

He looks at me and sighs. “There’s no reason for her to stick around if he’s gone.”

“Otto isn’t going to die, but if he does, she wouldn’t leave you. You’re her dad too. She adores you as much