“Let’s start with what you were saying about the promotions for the days of the week. Tell me more.”
We discussed all the marketing concepts for the days of the week promos while we devoured our meals.
Theo listened with interest as I spoke.
“I really think The Bearded Goat needs a new image. Look around,” my eyes glanced up and down the neon lit strip, “everything here is all about class and pizazz. The Goat isn’t a good fit.”
“True, what do you think?”
“I think a whole makeover is in order. Maybe a new name, a new menu. Some fresh items would draw people in.” He listened intently and my mind went blank. It was really hard to concentrate on anything other than the way his hair ruffled in the breeze, and the way the neon lights of the city cast shadows over his chiseled face. He was so approachable and carefree tonight. Like the night on the beach. I missed that Theo.
“This is great, Penny. I think it’ll really help.”
“Can I ask a question, Theo?”
“Sure, anything.”
“Why the sudden change of heart?”
“What do you mean?” he asked.
“I mean, you hated the ideas this morning.” I twisted my linen napkin in my lap.
“I didn’t hate them, I was… preoccupied.” He licked his lips, slow and sensual.
My face grew hot as the wicked gleam in his eyes reminded me of the shameless way he licked and sucked me until I came on the bar. He was The Lord of The Pussy Eaters, no doubt about it. With a pitter-patter in my heart, I pressed my thighs together and tried to look away.
“Fine, you didn’t hate them.”
“I didn’t.” His lips curved upward. “Are you busy later? I need to get Lucy back to her mother’s, but I would like to keep discussing this.”
“Sure, that would be great.”
We finished off our entrees and left the restaurant.
“How about you meet me at the Bearded Goat and we can figure out a place to discuss things.” He picked up Lucy and she rested her head on his shoulder.
“Sounds great.”
I left him standing on the side of Ocean Drive and headed off in the direction of the sandy shore.
The moon hung low along the horizon casting a glowing reflection on the ocean. The waves were minimal, and I felt like a trespasser on a serene moment in time. My one-night with Theo, tucked away in the lifeguard station, flooded my mind. Tonight, I wanted to blurt out to him who I was. To hell with the consequences. But, I couldn’t take the risk he would fire me, not now. My own dream was within reach. A wistful exhale left me and I closed my eyes letting the breeze rush over my skin. I could only hope I came out of this with my heart intact. Everything since the moment we met was one downward spiral into an endless abyss, and I was terrified no one would be there to save me. Or if I even deserved saving.
ELEVEN
THEO
Fuck yeah.
The plans Penny had were good, really good. She knew what she was doing. With a feeling things might work out in my favor, I drove Lucy home and headed to the Goat.
“Have you seen Penny?” I called out to Henry as I marched up to the bar he stood behind.
“Oh, we weren’t expecting you this evening, Mr. Sullivan.” His lazy surfer attitude annoyed me.
“I didn’t plan on coming in,” I said, scanning the open area for her. “Penny? Have you seen her?” I clipped off.
“Err…no, I don’t know…”