Page 62 of The Director's Daughter

CHAPTER THIRTY-ONE

WITH THE TOP DOWN ONthe Mustang, Emma was leaving her morning yoga class when her cellphone rang. Seeing Zach’s name on her car’s console she broke into a happy smile. He’d called her the night before and made wicked promises she prayed he’d keep, but he’d also told her she probably wouldn’t hear from him until late the following day. The call was an unexpected surprise.

“Hi, Superman.”

“Superman?”

“You’re definitely Superman to me.”

“Did I catch you at a bad time?”

“No, and you never could. I’m driving home from yoga. How was your meeting? Is that script you’re so excited about still going ahead?”

“It certainly is, and Jerry’s a genius. His ideas are so spot on. What about you?”

“Dad called me. He wanted to know if I had any news on the work front. That man is driving me crazy.”

“He just cares about you. Anyway, come to my house for dinner tonight. I’ll whip us up some pasta. A friend of mine made an incredible sauce and I need to finish it up.”

“That’s about the least romantic invitation I’ve ever received. You want to see me because you need to use up some pasta sauce!”

“Funny,” he said with a chuckle. “I’ll email you my address. It’s easy to find. Arrive around six.”

“I haven’t said yes.”

“It isn’t a request. It’s an order. I’m in charge, remember?”

“Oh, sorry,” she said hastily, grinning as she spoke. “I guess I’ll have to get used to being summoned.”

“Yes you will, and don’t be late. You’ll get a swat for every minute that you are, though I might add another punishment to make it more interesting.”

“Why did you say that?” she exclaimed, her butterflies bursting to life. “Don’t you know what it does to me?”

“Silly question for a smart girl! Stay safe, and I’ll see you later.”

“Bye, Superman. Don’t get your cape caught.”

“I’m not sure what that’s supposed to mean, but I’ll do my best.”

Ending the call and feeling on top of the world, she turned down the street to her complex. As she rolled the Mustang into the underground parking garage, she wondered if his invitation meant she’d be staying over. Deciding to assume she would be, she made a mental list of what she’d needed to pack, then decided to make a dessert to take with her. Excited about the night ahead, she climbed from her car and hurried to the elevator.

* * *

AFTER FINISHING HIScall with Emma, Zach’s focus quickly returned to his meeting with Jerry. He was still mulling over the news when he entered his office.

“How did it go?” Martha asked as he stopped at her desk.

“Good and bad. Can you come in for a second?”

“Apparently more bad than good,” she remarked as she followed him in.

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