Page 30 of Kai
"Yes, but he hasn't called, and he left before I woke up." She toyed with the sugar biscuits.
"There's no rule that says the guy has to call first. This is not the Victorian era." Her friend pointed out.
"I need time."
Yvette eyed her curiously. "And in the meantime, what about Matthew?"
She closed her eyes briefly. "I have a date with him on Friday."
"You're still going?"
"I cannot just break it, no matter what Kai says."
"Honey, you're playing a dangerous game and someone's going to get hurt. That someone is more than likely Matthew."
"I don't want to hurt him. He's a really nice guy." She picked up her cup and then put it back down. As she was about to say something more, the doorbell jingled, and Matthew walked in.
She blinked and wondered if she had somehow conjured him up. But he was real and walking towards them with a beaming smile.
"Matthew."
"Huh Oh." Yvette muttered. "Speak of the sweet man and he appears." Sliding from the chair, she offered her hand to him, delighted when he lifted it and brushed his lips over her knuckles. Aiming a mischievous smile at her friend, she added. "Sweet guy. See you later."
Rising, Maxie fixed a smile on her face and prayed desperately that it remained in place.
"What brings you here?"
When he took her hand, she did not object or pull away, even though she wanted to.
"My sister. I want to surprise her with another outfit."
"She's a lucky woman, to have such a caring brother."
"I would very much like you to meet her."
She became flustered and felt the guilt tearing through her. He really was a nice man, and she felt nothing except respect and mild caring. Especially after...
Using evasion, she steered him over to what she called the eclectic section. "Do you have any idea what you need?"
"You decide." He patted her hand. "I trust your good taste."
Pulling her hand away from his, she sifted through the assortment of outfits and plucked out a rose-colored shift with a multi-colored wrap. "With her coloring, I think this is perfect."
Matthew gave a pleased nod. "I love it. We're still on for Friday, right?"
The guilt spread to form a knot in her chest. "Of course we are." She forced a smile and wondered what on earth she was doing.
"Great." He looked very pleased. "I'm looking forward to it."
Just then her phone vibrated. "I have to take this. I'll let someone ring you up."
Rubbing a hand up and down her arm, he smiled at her. "Thanks."
She escaped into her office as soon as Marge came over and plucked out her phone. Ignoring the blip of her heart, she forced her tone to be neutral. "What do you want?"
There was a pause before he responded. "Good evening to you too. Are you mad at me for leaving you this morning?"
"Don't flatter yourself." Easing onto the side of the desk, she pressed a hand at her heart to try and slow it down. "I'm used to you leaving."
