Page 49 of Charmed By Destiny

“Can you let Gabriel know we’re having company?”

“Of course, babe,” Maribeth replied, unfolding herself from the sofa. “Smells like David made coffee, do you want some?”

“Love some, I’m exhausted.”

“Stop teasing me. Either tell me everything or stop bragging about your lack of sleep.”

Richard tuned her out. She’d learn about Lucas soon, and he wanted to ensure nothing was wrong with Douglas. His fingers flew across the screen with an invitation to come to the house.

By the time Maribeth returned with a steaming mug for Richard, Douglas was already on his way. He thanked Maribeth and drank deeply of the delicious brew. No one made coffee as delightful as David did, and Richard appreciated what an artist the inspirit was in the kitchen.

“Hmm, I’m going to miss this when I go back to New York tonight.”

Richard sighed. “Do you really have to leave so soon?”

“Everyone will be at work tomorrow, including you, how would I entertain myself here? No, I have things to do.”

“Like what?” Richard asked. “Have you decided on a field of study in school?”

“I don’t know if I want to do school yet.”

It was frustrating that Maribeth had been gone for three months and she remained undecided about her future. If she didn’t need to be in New York for any reason, Richard wanted her home. But he couldn’t act like a petulant, selfish brat, so he kept that to himself.

“Career or job instead?” Richard asked.

Maribeth shrugged. “Mostly I’ve been visiting museum and reading books. I’ve lost count of how many books I’ve read.”

“Keep track of them so you can impress me with all your newly gained knowledge.”

“I’ll start, okay?”

“Good. How’s the shopping?”

“I’ve barely bought a thing. It’s no fun without you. My condo is practically barren. You should come to New York and help me.”

“It’s about time you invited me,” Richard said. “Of course I’ll come.”

“You had a wedding to help plan, I couldn’t drag you there before yesterday. Check your schedule and pick a week where it’s relatively calm at work, okay?”

“I’ll scour my calendar with my assistant in the morning.”

The doorbell rang, and Richard finished his coffee. A minute later, Douglas walked into the living room. Richard stood and hugged the inspirit, as did Maribeth.

“Maribeth, I don’t want to be rude, but do you mind if I speak privately with Richard?” Douglas asked.

“No worries, sweetie, it’s a big house, I’ll go bug David or annoy Gabriel by asking him details about his wedding night.”

Richard chuckled. “Stay here, Mari. Douglas, let’s go use the office. My mother forbade my father from entering this weekend, so it’ll be empty. We can shut the door so no nosy busybody like Mari spies on us.”

Although Maribeth rolled her eyes, she didn’t bother protesting her innocence. Richard led Douglas through the house to find that the office was indeed unoccupied. Once inside, Richard sat on a dark loveseat and patted the cushion next to him.

“Talk to me,” Richard insisted.

Douglas accepted the silent invitation to sit, and his gaze met Richard’s. “I’m sorry to disrupt this weekend, but I couldn’t wait any longer to talk to you.”

“It’s okay. My parents are helping Eric and Gabriel sort through their gifts, we’re going to have dinner, then send them upstairs to pack for their surprise trip. Mari and I were watching TV. You aren’t interrupting anything.”

“We’ve been friends for many years. I like to think we’ve complemented each other well in the office.”

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