Page 68 of Love on the Line

“Maybe not, but it’s my pleasure. I’m leaving for a while, anyway.” Flicking the light switch, he followed her out.

He’d timed his meeting with her, knowing that the pediatric brats would be in the open area, and the gifts he’d sent would be delivered that day. Sure enough, as he passed by the children flocked to him.

“Mr. Blackwood, thank you.” The little girl that he’d given the gold coin to before, whatever her name was, held up a magic book. “I’ve been practicing. I know how to do some tricks now.”

He winked at her and placed a finger on her lips. “Shh. Don’t tell anyone how you do them. Remember, magicians never reveal their secrets.”

She hugged his leg and the other children gathered around, each holding up their gifts. He had no idea what half of them were, but he’d googled the best toys for kids their ages and ordered some. Seemed to be a success, but nowhere near the reward he got from Anne’s expression.

Ka-ching. Big winner.

He said goodbye to the mob and headed to the elevator.

“You’re so generous.” Anne glanced back at the horde.

“I try to help where I can.” Now to pull the ace from his sleeve. As they passed an office, he paused at the door. “Sorry, I need to check something. Hold on a sec.”

He ducked his head in. “Hey, Mary. Is the cuddle orientation at seven or eight tonight? I have two different times in my calendar.”

“Seven. I’ll see you there?”

“Wouldn’t miss it.” He gave her a wave and continued down the hall.

When they stopped at the elevator, Anne gazed up at him, a faint smile on her lips. “I’ve heard about that program. Are you training to hold the NICU babies?”

And…the house takes the hand. He gave himself a virtual high-five at the excitement in her voice. “Yeah. I’m taking my second class.”

She nodded. “That’s fantastic. It’s something I want to do, but I don’t have time right now. I love babies.”

“Me, too. I can’t wait to have my own one day.” The elevator door opened and she entered. Her smile had faded, replaced by a worry line. Another score for him. Now he had her thinking. He’d heard her tell Emily that Pearson didn’t want children. Devon had only signed up for the orientations to impress Anne. Since he’d made his point with her, he wouldn’t even go anymore. He had zero interest in holding a wailing sack of poop.

“I’m sure you’ll make a great father as good as you are with the kids.” She pressed the lobby button and stepped back.

“I hope so.” He warmed his tone and looked her in the eyes. “I just need to find the right woman first.”

She stared back at him for a second, then gazed at the elevator numbers, a hint of pink creeping up her neck. “I’m sure you will.”

The doors opened and they walked out to the parking lot. Anne stopped. “Have fun tonight. I’ll see you next week.”

Time to make his move. “Actually, I’d like to see you sooner.”

“Sooner?” She glanced up at him.

“Yes.” He held her gaze. “How about going to dinner with me, unrelated to the walk-a-thon.”

“Oh.” She looked away. “I’m sorry, I’m seeing someone.”

Shit. Irritation burned his stomach. The wedge between her and Pearson wasn’t big enough yet. “The ex-football player in the picture?”

“Yeah.” Red spots blotted her cheeks.

“I wasn’t sure if you were still together. I mean, you don’t have a ring on your finger, and I know how disturbing all that social media was to you.”

“It is, but…” She shrugged.

He squared his shoulders. “May I be direct?”

“Yes?”

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