Girl Get Rid Of That Jerk by Melissa Johns

Chapter 271

Oak Lake felt too small for comfort. Allison never imagined she'd bump into Joshua here of all places. As she stood there, stunned, Watson chimed in from behind, "Mr. Fisher, what a surprise running into you here for dinner."

Joshua's voice was cool and collected, his exterior calm. "Yes."

Allison found herself at a loss for words, so she opted for silence, brushing past Joshua and heading straight into the restaurant.

A waiter approached with a welcoming smile. "Hi there, how many in your party? Do you have a reservation?"

Allison kept her cool. "Two, and yes, it's under the last four digits 0725."

"Right this way, please."

As Allison followed the waiter, Watson flashed a smile at Joshua. "Mr. Fisher, if you'll excuse me."

Joshua stood there, frozen, his eyes cast downward. It was Valentine's Day, after all. Why was Allie dining alone with Watson on such a day? Was it... a date?

A pang of jealousy tightened his chest, leaving him rooted to the spot like a statue, his legs numb.

With Joshua saying nothing, Watson's gaze lingered before moving on. The dim lighting in the restaurant set a romantic tone, but it couldn't hide the loneliness etched on Joshua's face.

A barely-there smile crept onto Watson's lips. He knew Joshua had jumped to conclusions. On a day like this, seeing a man and a woman dining together could easily be mistaken for romance. Watson had no plans to set the record straight.

Joshua with a steady stride,

in a chair, her mind elsewhere. She didn't stir even as

pulling out a

reality, a bit unfocused. "The menu's over there. You go ahead

a warm

He avoided unnecessary questions

or

Allison

anyone unwelcome.

regained her

encounter to the back of her

the conversation shifted to their business

years, just like me. If you're open to it, I'd love to bring

arrange a meeting and

Watson nodded. "Sounds good."

my college mate, so rest assured about

course, anyone you vouch

it was polite chatter, Allison remained vigilant. Partnering meant sharing both risks and