Mystery Of You (Pub 5)

40 - Lucky

Ainsley recovered, and Ian had been spared catching the nasty virus. Apparently, very few people were privy to their breakup. He had only told Henry and his father, who didn't confide with Margot.

Thanksgiving was around the corner, and Ian was hesitant to broach the subject with Ainsley. He wanted her to meet his grandparents during their five-week visit. His early memories of staying in Boston included his nana and pop. They helped Andrew in his crash course on parenting. He had a special relationship with his paternal grandparents.

"Look out! He's thinking!" She chuckled over her coffee.

Another rule thrown out the window was the workday sleepover ban. He hadn't slept alone since he found her burning up and dehydrated.

He frowned at her. "What would you do if I stopped by your desk at noon? Would you eat in the cafeteria with me?"

"Are you trying to kill me? Does the jerk know we're back together?"

Ian shrugged. "I haven't spoken to him. I definitely want to rub it in his face. Before the job competition, I thought he liked you."

"I just want them to decide. The stress is killing me."

"Momma boy tried to kill you. But I can add more stress with one word."

She glared. "Make it quick or I'll be late."

"Thanksgiving."

"Oh, that."

She disappeared, and he was left wondering why she wasn't rattled.

Ian walked through the promotions department at noon and stopped at Ainsley's desk. She looked adorable as she chewed on her pen cap deep in thought. He leaned in. "Hungry?"

Her hand went to her heart. "You startled me." Her eye strayed to Henry. She smiled and waved. "Ian and I are going to lunch." Her focus changed. "Nina, this is Ian."

Ian put on the charm. "I've heard a lot about you."

"I wish I could say the same, but Ainsley is a vault." She looked at Ainsley. "Your guy works here?"

Henry looked over. Ian nodded, but the younger man looked away. The harsh words he said to Henry were out of anger, but they were true. The two men would never climb together.

For months, Ian had wanted to be out in the open with Ainsley. Even the awful food couldn't affect his mood. After losing her, he wanted to hold on to her.

"How does Henry really treat you?"

She shrugged. "I ignore him. He definitely didn't realize we were back together."

Ian took her hand. "I'm tired of hiding. You should come have lunch in my office."

"You mean replace Henry? Lilli and Zach were engaged and people in their office didn't know they were even a couple."

"Seriously?"

"It was a game for her." She pulled her hand back and looked around. "I don't want to kiss at work. We're professionals."

"I suggested lunch, not sex. Although." He winked. "Nope. My office walls are glass."

"We can roleplay at home."

Ian lowered his voice. "Dirty girl."

She took a bite of her salad and frowned. "I should learn not to get these."

"My burger is good. Why were you chill about Thanksgiving?"

She smiled. "Carolyn called. Because of us, Alicia has invited my parents for Thanksgiving."