A Guide to Being Just Friends(37)

She told herself it wasn’t a whisper of jealousy when Ana looked at Wes like she wished it were just the two of them. Just friendly … protectiveness.

Ana’s brother, Aidan, was tall, broad shouldered, and had a smile that reminded Hailey of the ones she used to see on sets. During breaks, she’d wander around and watch the filming. It always amazed her how fast a person could transform their features into different emotions. She didn’t trust it.

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Hailey,” Aidan said, holding her hand a touch longer than she was comfortable with.

“I’m so sorry we had to reschedule,” Ana said to Wes.

Wes moved to Hailey’s side, put a hand on her lower back. It was one of those moments where she hadn’t realized she was missing something. She didn’t miss being a couple—not really. She sure as hell didn’t miss Dorian. But she missed those little things: a hand on her back or slipping hers into someone’s back pocket.

“No worries. I’m glad we found a time that works. I’m eager to sign the contract.”

Ana patted her satchel. “I have it right here.”

“Your table is ready, Ms. Pergo,” the host said.

They followed the man to a table in the corner with pretty candle centerpieces. Silver cloth napkins sat atop crisp white tablecloths. The arched ceiling was made even prettier by dark wood beams and long candelabras adding a warm glow.

Once they were settled and the wine ordered, the small talk started. This was the first time Hailey had been with Wes in this sort of setting. While he was attentive to the conversation, he didn’t contribute much more than direct answers. When Aidan told a funny story about one of their clients, he laughed politely, but it was as clear as the real crystal glasses on the table that he was rusty at the socializing game. Or it shows just how much he’s dropped his guard with you.

“Tell me about your restaurant, Hailey,” Aidan said.

The waiter brought bread. Hailey picked up a piece and buttered it generously, passed it to Wes, who took it with a quiet nod of thanks, then buttered her own.

“I don’t think it’s in the restaurant category. Maybe an eatery? It’s small and all about salads. Every kind you can imagine in a take-out cup. Not that you can’t eat in but I definitely get more take-and-go customers.”

“Her salads are creative and delicious,” Wes said.

Hailey eyed him, curious that when the topic shifted to something business related, he participated more actively. Was he uncomfortable? Nervous?

“Do you have a card?” Ana met her gaze. There was something in it that pulled Hailey’s nerves tight. Probably her own insecurities. She’d left the world of glitz, glamour, and power gazes behind with Dorian.

“I do!” She didn’t mean to say it so loud and hunched her shoulders, laughing. “Sorry. So many people asked me that in the first month when I didn’t have any.” She passed one over.

“We do company and client lunches all the time. This is wonderful. I’ll definitely be calling you,” Ana said.

Hailey was excited by the thought of new customers. She hadn’t come to help her own business. She didn’t want to step on Wes’s toes and suggest her website so she picked up her water, took a sip.

“I’d really like to get the contracts signed and out of the way so we can enjoy dinner,” Wes said.

Ana shot him a dazzling smile. “You’re all work, Wes. You need to add a little play into your life.”

Wes seemed oblivious to the fact that Ana was interested in more than his cyberskills. Should she, as his friend, clue him in? When they pulled out the paperwork, Hailey excused herself to use the restroom.

After touching up her lipstick—it had been so long since she’d remembered she loved wearing it—she checked her phone.

Tara

Hey. Wanted to let you know the meeting was moved to tomorrow at 4. The landlord is attending.

Hailey

Thank you. Hope you’re having a fun Saturday night.

Tara

Don’t want to make you jealous but I’m doing inventory.

Hailey laughed.

Hailey

Totally jealous. Fiona is dragging me to a speed dating thing next week. You should come.

Tara

Intriguing. I’ll think about it.

The two business district meetings Hailey had attended so far were mostly housekeeping. Parking issues, a San Verde Square monthly newsletter was brought up, and a review of upcoming events. It was nice to meet some of her fellow shop owners but she and Tara were two of the only ones close to their thirties. Hailey was surprised by how many of the shops had been around for years. Management passed down through families.

When she returned to the table, she was happy to see the paperwork was done. Wes and Aidan both stood when she approached the table and it gave her stomach one of those whoosh feelings she hadn’t experienced in a while. It felt nice to be noticed. Maybe she should put some effort into the speed dating thing.

“All good?” Wes asked.

She nodded. “Tara texted that my shop owners’ meeting got moved to four tomorrow. The landlord is attending.” She shrugged, not knowing if that was normal.

“Interesting. Noah has been trying to get ahold of him for a while.”

“Your brother looking for more real estate?” Aidan asked.