Page 61 of Sweet Heart

There is a long pause, and then her words come out soft.

“I know.”

I can hear the smile in her voice. Before Mary, I thought it was nonsense when people claimed they could hear facial expressions. That’s not how non-verbal communication works. Yet, here I am.

“I’ll be there.”

“Huh?”

“The book signing.”

“Really?”

I hear the rustling again, and I grin. She must have sat straight up in her enthusiasm. And how are you going to do that, Katherina? I close my eyes as I try to push the thought away. This will mean I’ll have quite the sacrifice to make.

“Yes, really. Tell me what time to pick you up.”

No going back now. If I can’t make this work, she’ll be thoroughly disappointed, and that is not an option. I run my hand over my face.

“And maybe we can visit that Lebanese restaurant after?”

Mary gasps and then goes off about how that would be just perfect. I nod, even if she can’t hear it, and get up from my comfortable spot. By the time I reach my car, we’ve agreed on a time and on her making the reservations. I wish her a beautiful evening and instantly dial the next number after she hangs up.

“Durand?”

“James, I need a favor.”

“Must be serious if you are calling me James.”

“Hm.” I roll my eyes.

“What is it?”

“I need Saturday off.”

“Ha, good luck with that. I can’t, Cat. My family…”

“Isn’t it your daughter’s first dance recital tonight?”

“You mean…”

“I need Saturday.”

“You just came off a twelve-hour shift and are due in eleven hours for another twelve.”

“What’s ten more…”

“You do mean it, don’t you?”

“Have I ever said something I didn’t mean, Doctor Honda?”

It stays quiet on the other side, and then I hear his sneakers squeak on the floor.

“Better get here fast, then. She starts in an hour, and if I miss it, you’ll be working on Saturday.”

I end the call without another word, start my car, and jet out of the garage. I will not let her down.

Chapter 23