Beyond Reason by Karice Bolton Read Free Book Online

campaign through. If you need anything, let us know. I see you put in for vacation after the holidays. Unfortunately, I can’t approve it.”
    I could tell there was no unfortunately about it. He was delighted to break the news to me. But it really didn’t matter because on December 24 th , I’d be giving my notice and loving every second of it.
    “I understand. It was short notice,” I replied.
    “My father was quite impressed with your knowledge of Better and seems to be reconsidering your employment here.”
    Yeah, right.
    My stomach was literally churning this morning’s latte and lemon pound cake, but I had to tolerate the games. I needed to get to December 23 rd . I’d had some reckless moments in my life, but this wasn’t going to be one of them.
    “That’s wonderful news,” I replied, looking into Rob’s vacant eyes.
    “Great. I’ll let you get back to work. Again, if there’s anything you need, let me know.” He tapped my desk and turned around, exiting quickly. I knew there was something more going on in Rob’s mind. I only hoped I wouldn’t be around to see what it was.

 
     
     
     
    “You guys made the trip,” I squealed, as I opened my door to see Brandy and Gabby standing in front of me. They were both holding an assortment of shopping bags, and I knew what they’d been up to while I was at the office.
    I think they were feeling guilty about what they had up their sleeves but not guilty enough to confess or call it off. I got out of the way as they piled into the entry.
    “Who’s running the bakery, if you’re down here tearing up the stores?” I teased.
    It was almost impossible to convince Gabby to take a day off. In fact, I wasn’t sure how Brandy had convinced her to take an entire week off for our Utah trip. They must have thought I was in a dating crisis.
    “Girls’ weekend,” they both sang together.
    “When it comes to my Lily, I’d close up shop if I had to,” Gabby laughed.
    I raised a brow and watched as they made their way into the family room. I had a few candles lit on the coffee table, and the flokati rug I’d ordered had finally arrived and was placed in the center of the room, complimenting the linen color of the couches nicely. The built-in shelves on each side of the fireplace overflowed with books. Even though I had copies of most on my e-reader now, I couldn’t bear to part with the paperbacks.
    Gabby fell into a chair and Brandy sat on a couch, flipping the television on.
    “I love the new chair,” Gabby said, crossing her legs and pulling a blanket onto her lap. “It feels like home.”
    “Okay, what are you two up to?” I sat on the couch next to Brandy and grabbed one of the cream pillows to hold. “You’re never this nice.”
    “I’m offended,” Brandy said, snatching the pillow from my lap. “This rug is so soft. I love it.” She had flung off her shoes, and her feet were buried deep in the shag.
    “Can you believe how good she looks?” Gabby asked Brandy. “It’s like she’s glowing. This new guy must be good for her, whoever he is.”
    “You went over the top with that one. You’re never this nice,” I laughed. “Plus, it’s Friday night and the fact that you two want to stay in makes me suspicious. And nervous.”
    “We’re all attached so why would we go out and try to meet guys,” Gabby said.
    “On that note, tell us all about your new guy.” Brandy switched the topic.
    I had somewhat planned for this so I had my list at the ready.
    “He’s absolutely amazing. Tall, tan, muscular, loyal, completely hot but adorable…is employed full-time.”
    As I listed Ayden’s qualities, I almost started laughing.
    “Sounds like a winner already,” Brandy teased. “Employed full-time, huh?”
    “You’d be surprised. Around here that is a big deal,” I laughed. “He’s absolutely gorgeous, and he snowboards so that should be perfect for our little getaway.”
    Brandy and Gabby traded nervous glances and Brandy let out a