Tracy’s shoulders relaxed. “You’re a lifesaver Denise, you really are. Do you know if anyone else heard me?”
Denise thought it over. “A few people heard something as they were leaving, but they left before the part about Mr. Derby.”
And the panic was back. “Mr. Derby?”
“You shouted his name a few times. That’s why I came in. He is pretty cute you know, if you’re into that sort of thing.”
Tracy was near-hyperventilating. “Denise, I know you said already that you wouldn’t tell anybody, but I need to hear it again. I’m going to be working as his assistant...I think, and, and-”
“Does he know you like him?”
“I’m sorry?”
“Did you tell him? He’s not married or anything.”
“I can’t…”
“I know, rules are rules, but he seems chill. And you’re beyond into him, clearly. Maybe you should try?”
“I would, but I’m not even totally sure he likes girls. He has an ex-husband, and-”
Denise smiled. “Trust me, girl to girl: he’s into chicks too. No gay dude would spend that much time looking at my butt when he thinks I don’t know.”
Tracy’s face went dead. Mr. Derby had never once flirted with Kirsty! And Trent wouldn’t have imagined he’d be interested in someone so young and inexperienced. Tracy wasn’t sure whether to feel respected or insulted.
“Hello?” Denise asked. Tracy wondered how long it’d been. “Is there anybody in that hot bod of yours?”