Chapter Eleven-Nico&Anna

Nico

I walk into the Den pissed off and buzzing with energy. The smell of coffee is strong, fresh, and my head snaps to where Maria is pouring a cup.

She holds it out to me.

“Thanks, Maria. Why are you still here?” I ask.

It’s not unusual for the bartender to pick up a couple of extra shifts. But closing was three hours ago, and we don’t open again till noon.

“I just wanted to make sure you were alright, Boss,” she says with a shy smile.

I’m not an idiot. I know something is up with her, and I know she’s been flirting with me. I’m just not interested. Never was.

“Look at me,” I say.

Her smile disappears the second she makes eye contact. She looks away quickly.

“Any concern for my welfare belongs to my wife and my wife alone. I’m married and I don’t cheat, understand?” I tell her, noting her surprise.

“Yes, I-I didn’t mean anything, I was just, forget it,” she murmurs, laughing nervously.

But she stops before she can outright lie, and I respect her for it.