Page 38 of Niall

I knew what she was saying. The only personality in Niall’s suite was the navy-and-cream bedding. Other than that, it was exactly what it was meant to be. A hotel suite. A very luxurious one, but a suite, nonetheless.

I heard the tap, tap, tap of high heels on wood and glanced up to see a young woman heading our way. She smiled as she approached, her dark hair gleaming under the lights. She was average height and slender, and she looked as if she’d stepped off a runway. She stopped across from us and dropped into a chair, crossing her shapely legs.

“Sorry to interrupt, ladies. I was hoping you could help me,” she said, her voice having an odd cadence. Almost a singsong tone and slightly high-pitched.

“If we can,” Una said cautiously.

“I’m staying in this lovely hotel,” the stranger said, leaning forward. “My husband has been transferred here with his job, and I’ve come ahead to house hunt.”

“I see,” Una replied.

“Anyway, I am dying for some sushi, and the concierge said you might be able to give me the name of a local place.” She winked. “He admitted he’d never eaten it.”

The action drew my gaze to her eyes. They were a dark gray—unusual. Her makeup was flawless and done to draw attention to her unique eyes.

“Oh yes,” Una said. “Joyful is just a block away. One of my favorites. Go out the front door and turn to the right. It’s a fast walk.”

“Oh, thank you!” Then she stuck out her hand. “I’m Heidi.”

Una hesitated, then shook her hand. “Una.”

“What a cool name.”

She turned to me, holding her hand out again. “And you are?”

“Anna.”

She sat back, looking delighted. “Una and Anna! What a great set of names for best friends!”

I tilted my head. “How do you know we’re best friends?”

Heidi laughed. “I could see that immediately. You two are sympatico!” She blew a kiss into the air. The theatrical gesture made me laugh.

“How long are you staying?” Una asked, interested.

“Another ten days or so. I looked around with an agent yesterday to decide on the area. I love the waterfront. Queens Quay, I think it was called?”

“Yes. So, a condo?”

“Oh yes. I’m not into outdoor work, and neither is my husband. He is always too busy, so when he’s home, we like to spend the time having fun, not cutting the grass. And he has always wanted a boat. So, it would be perfect.” She stood.

“I’m starving.” She paused. “I don’t suppose I can persuade you ladies to come with me? I miss my husband, and I hate eating alone. My treat!”

We shook our heads. “Sorry, but we have plans.”

She looked disappointed. “Another day, then.”

Una nodded. “Sounds nice.”

Heidi smiled and waved. “Okay, I’m off. I’ve taken up enough of your time. Thank you.” She called over her shoulder. “Maybe I’ll see you tomorrow!”

Una waved, and Heidi left, sailing through the front doors as if she owned the place.

“I wish I had that sort of confidence,” I murmured.

“She is very sure of herself.”

“I wonder what her husband does. She’s about our age. Condos on Queen’s Quay are pricey.”