Free Unexpected by Faith Sullivan

kidding since she detests the objectification of women on any level. From working in such a male-dominated environment, she’s developed a strong demeanor that insists on being treated like an equal, and I admire her for always standing up for herself.
    “Let them keep dreaming.” I pull the shirt over my head. It hugs my curves, but not in a vulgar way, and it shows off my collarbone, a highly kissable spot. Maybe it’ll rekindle Connor’s interest in me.
    “How does it look? Let me see.” Who would have thought Emily of all people was into clothes?
    Throwing back the curtain, I strike an exaggerated pose, holding my hastily twisted hair above my head. “What do you think?” “Girl, you are on fire!” she exclaims, clapping her hands in approval. “And you’ll get a lot of mileage out of a top like that. You can dress it up, dress it down. It’s a must have.”
    “I really wish I could find a pair of jeans like yours.” The girl’s fashion sense is off the hook.
    “Well, if you ever want to borrow them, just let me know. They should fit you. They’re a four petite.” She stands back to reexamine my frame.
    “I think I can squeeze my big-ass thighs into them.” Ugh, I have to stop eating all that bar food.
    “The only thing that keeps my weight in check is being on my feet all day.” I don’t want to remind her that I’m also on my feet for most of my shifts without seeing the same results.
    “Emily, your biceps are sick. If I were you, I’d wear tank tops all the time. Show those suckers off. God, I’d kill to be that toned.” I wonder what Emily’s husband looks like. I bet he’s fine.
    “Again, another occupational hazard from lifting all those cases of beer. It’s all good until I throw my back out again.” She grimaces at the memory.
    “I don’t know how you do it. I’m always yelling for Connor to help me when I have to bring one up to the bar.” I don’t mind having a big, strong man around.
    “Uh huh.” She gives me a knowing smile.
    “What?” I ask exasperated.
    “You’re into him. I should have known.” She doesn’t sound entirely happy about the idea.
    “Even if I am, he’s not into me. At least, not anymore.” And just like that, my buzz is gone.
    “Why, what happened? Did he cheat on you?” Wow, that’s sudden. Emily doesn’t fool around.
    “He’s been with a few girls since I moved in. We never officially dated or anything, but it doesn’t exactly inspire confidence in having some sort of meaningful relationship down the line. Intimacy is a stumbling block for him.” I never thought I’d be having this conversation with Emily. I should shut my mouth before I divulge too much and share things I’ll regret saying later.
    “You intimidate the hell out of him. You know that, right?” she asks, a mischievous glint in her eye.
    “I highly doubt it. He doesn’t intimidate easily.” Her remark throws me off guard. What if she’s right?
    “You have to admit, I have a somewhat different perspective on the situation. To me, his cockiness is such a turnoff, but some girls eat that up. It’s like he’s trying too hard or something. Like he’s insecure at his core. But with you, he doesn’t seem to know how to act. You’ve thrown him off his game, and man is it fun to watch.”
    “I’m glad we amuse you.” I’m pissed and I don’t care if it shows. Connor may be a prick, but I’m not going to stand by and let her rip him to shreds.
    Holding up her hands, she acknowledges that she may be overstepping her bounds. “Now, don’t go getting mad at me. I know he gets under your skin, but you can wrap him around your finger if you wanted to.”
    “Gee, thanks. But I don’t envision it happening. He’s my boss and…”
    “He’s totally in love with you.” She interrupts, finishing my sentence for me.
    “Well, I’m glad you think so. But is it okay if I completely disagree?” I ask stalking back behind the curtain.
    “You’re good for him,