A Bargain with the Boss

Eight

Amber had dredged up every possible memory about Dixon’s plans. Jackson was very good at his job, leading her down pathways that would have seemed insignificant to her, but clearly helped form the picture of Dixon’s state of mind.

Tuck had been quiet throughout the conversation, excusing himself afterward without comment. She couldn’t tell if he was pursuing a new lead or if he was annoyed with something she’d said. Jackson had immediately left to meet with his team, leaving Amber with some time to call Jade.

The news from the hospital was all good. Jade’s blood pressure was stable and there were no other worrisome signs. They’d done an ultrasound and the baby still seemed fine. The technician had given odds on it being a girl.

Amber had also discovered that her signing bonus had been deposited into her bank account. It was a huge relief to know she was able to pay the hospital bills as they arrived.

Up next was the Robson party. After their kiss last night, she was nervous about spending the evening alone with Tuck. But she reminded herself that this was what she’d signed up for. Finding Dixon was one thing, but she also had to help Tuck keep the company running.

Lucas had said the Robson party would be formal—evening-gown and black-tie formal. She had a sleeveless, black crepe dress at home that would have worked. But she’d traveled light, with nothing but business and casual clothes in her suitcase.

Fingers mentally crossed, she navigated the hallway to the lobby shops, hoping the hotel boutique had something suitable.

She stopped at their display window, taking in a sublimely beautiful cobalt blue dress. The cap sleeves were sheer netting and appliqué, with a fitted, crisscross bodice of supple, lightweight tulle. The dress was finished with an elegant, full skirt that glittered under the display lights.

It was perfect. It was also ten times Amber’s price range.

She wandered inside, checking out the few formal gowns among an eclectic women’s collection that ranged from hats and purses, to beachwear and jackets. She found a couple of dresses that would work without breaking her bank account and the saleslady directed her to a compact fitting room.

She started with an unadorned navy gown with three-quarter-length sleeves and a V-neck. It was neutral, and she could see how it would fit well on many body shapes. She moved out of the cubicle to look in the full-length mirror.

“A bit uninspiring,” said a male voice behind her.

She turned to find Tuck, a plastic suit bag slung over his arm.

“Great minds think alike,” he said, holding up what was obviously a newly purchased outfit for the evening.

She turned back to the mirror. “It’s not bad. It’s not as if I have a lot of choices.”

“I do like the shoes.”

Fortunately, Amber had tossed in a pair of silver spike heels that had just enough rhinestones to make them interesting. They weren’t perfect with the navy dress, but she could get away with them.

“I’ve got a pair at home that would work better with this dress.”

“I have no doubt that you do.”

She peered at him in the mirror, trying to determine his level of sarcasm.

“Don’t look so suspicious. Your extensive shoe collection is one of my favorite things about you.”

“Nice save.”

“It wasn’t a save. I’m saying you need a different dress.”

“There’s not much to choose from.”

He pointed over his shoulder at the display window. “What about that one?”

The saleslady was quick to pounce. “We do have it in her size.”

“Great,” said Tuck.

“Wrong,” said Amber. She hated to be crass, but she didn’t see any point in pretending. “It’s too expensive.”

“It’s a business function,” said Tuck.

“I know that.”

“She’ll try it on,” he said to the saleslady.

“No, she won’t.”

“I’m not asking you to pay for it.”

“You’re sure not paying for it.”

He was her boss, not her boyfriend. A few kisses notwithstanding, they didn’t have the kind of relationship that allowed him to buy her clothes or anything else for that matter.

“Not me, Amber. Tucker Transportation.”

“That’s not how it works.”

“That’s exactly how it works. You’re here on business. I’m compelling you to attend a business function. Your wardrobe is the company’s responsibility.”