Chapter 8

“Oh no. You should try The Hines’. They have the best bacon grilled cheese with pickles.”

Hearing that, Evan’s belly let out another rough tune. This time Ben smiled widely. He took Evan’s elbow.

“Come on.”

“I-I have to withdraw some cash.” He was sure his face flamed, as Ben could have been the one who transferred the money.

“It’s okay. My treat.”

Evan jerked backward. “No, you can’t do that. Your office has given me a lot.”

“Let’s say it’s a welcome meal, as opposed to a welcome drink.” Ben winked at him. “And it is not my office,” he added, mumbling.

Evan rocked on his heels. Suddenly he felt very young. Ben might be in his early thirties, making him eight to ten years older than Evan.

“Evan, it’s nothing. Just breakfast. It’s not like I’m taking you to a candle-lit dinner or something.”

“Yeah.” A corner of his lips tugged up into a smile. “Okay. But let me grab you a sandwich sometime.”

“Deal.”