16

ESTELLE

“Agh. I’m gonna regret this.”

“Don’t chicken out now. Linden is a good guy.”

“Really?” I asked exaggeratedly. Sarcasm dripped in my voice. “Since when? Because he’s your boss now?”

“Then get to know him. He’s actually a—”

“A good guy? You said it already.”

“I was about to say a trustworthy person. You have to give it a chance.” His reply was conciliatory.

“I hope you’re right.” I looked outside the car window. “This is a business dinner. I know what you’re thinking, so don’t get any idea.”

He chuckled. “The only idea I get is he’s a good cook. His father is a chef. When Linden saved money, he bought a restaurant for him. The older Linden doesn’t work in the kitchen anymore but is always in his restaurant. I found that admirable. His father is his hero, Estelle.”

“Whatever. I hope I won’t regret this,” I said dismissively. I didn’t want more convincing because I knew I had misjudged Linden.

“Just chill out. You can always walk out and call me if he makes you uncomfort