Page 9 of Ms. Lead

Maybe that’s my problem. I’m trying to solve something illogical with logic. But feelings like this aren’t rational. From my experience, love is the most irrational emotion in the world.

Love.

I am getting ahead of myself, completely overthinking one small interaction with a stranger. I must focus on my work here and not get swept up in silly romantic fantasies.

A mail notification from my phone snaps me out of my mental downward spiral. Checking my inbox, I see a new message from none other than Bianca. A shiver runs through me when I see her name.

It’s just a coincidence you were thinking about her. Nothing more.

From: [email protected]

To: [email protected]

Subject: Scheduling

Mr. Bellamy,

I hope you are settling into your hotel and aren’t too jet-lagged from your trip. I’m reaching out to confirm your itinerary for the next few days. Unfortunately, Normandy cannot assist you as planned, so I will be stepping in to escort you to your appointments. We hope this change isn’t a problem for you.

Your schedule lists tomorrow as a day off, which I assume is to help you acclimate to the time change. However, should you need anything before your first scheduled appointment, I am at your disposal. My number is listed below.

Sincerely,

Bianca Torino

Lead Driver

Mischief Motors

Well, damn. She’s at my disposal? I’ve always found that phrase curious, and right this second, it’s giving me ideas. Ideas I shouldn’t be having.

Pulling up my calendar, I see that she’s right. I don’t have anything scheduled for tomorrow. Darcie must have arranged for the day off after traveling. A pang of guilt hits me at the thought of her arranging time for me to get over the jet lag, but I push it aside. I can thank her later.

Right now, I’m wondering if I want to wait until Saturday to see Bianca again. It seems like an eternity from now. Another wave of guilt washes over me as I picture the hurt look on her face when I backed away from her earlier. Not only that, I was rude to her. Considering that I’m going to be spending a lot of time with her over the next month, I should probably make amends. I also need to figure out how to be in her presence without losing myself. That will be the tricky part.

Baby steps. I need to take this in baby steps.

From: [email protected]

To: [email protected]

Subject: Disposal

Bianca,

Please call me Oliver. And thank you for stepping in to help with my project. Your time is appreciated, as I’m sure it will pull you away from your regular duties.

I realise I did not make the best impression when I first landed, and I would like to request a second attempt at a first impression. I am open for lunch or dinner tomorrow if you can meet. We can discuss my book project in more detail and go over the itinerary to ensure I have everything covered. Since you stated that you were at my disposal, I will assume this is acceptable.

Please advise which meal you prefer to share.

Yours,

Oliver

The Rude Author

Right. That’s not too cheeky and rather friendly if I do say so. Fingers crossed that I’m at least on the right track to mend my earlier blunders.

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