Page 58 of Niall

She brightened. “I think next week. Finn’s pulled some strings and got the usual three-week window shortened. We signed everything last night. We were thinking next Friday on the terrace, just us and you and Niall. Dinner after. We’ll leave for Ireland on the Monday.”

“Sounds lovely.”

She nodded. “I don’t want big and complicated. I just want him. I know Roisin will have a party while we’re there. And he thought we would host one when we get back.”

“Sounds good.”

“So, we need to get dresses.”

“Okay. Any color?”

“Finn loves green. I think I’ll stick with that.”

“Sounds good.”

“Things going well with you and Niall?”

I smiled widely. “Perfect.”

She took my hand. “Good. You suit each other. Finn says he’s never seen him happier.”

“He’s wonderful.”

“So are you.”

“Thanks, my friend.”

On Friday, George finished a report he’d been working on and handed it to me. “Your time is almost up, Anna,” he said kindly. “You look a bit tired. Take this to accounting and be done for the day.”

“I have another half hour,” I protested.

He patted my shoulder. “It is very quiet, and I am fine with Charlotte here.”

I took the report, feeling grateful. I was a little tired. It was a rainy, dull day, and I had felt chilly and had put on one of the sweaters that came with the uniform. It was thick and warm, but the sleeves were too long. I rolled them up, but the wool kept getting caught on my bracelet and pulling it down. Finally, I gave up, leaving it tangled. I would fix it later. I was looking forward to going back to the suite, getting comfortable, and having some hot tea.

I loved this new addition to my life. I felt useful and back in control. But finding a new routine and learning so many new things was exhausting. I kept quiet because if Niall thought this was too much, he would make me stop, and I didn’t want to. I was enjoying learning. Even meeting the new guests. Since I was surrounded by people and the men Niall and Finn had posted, it was a safe way to be with others and not be nervous.

I dropped the report off in the accounting office and chatted with the staff for a few moments, then headed toward the elevator. Niall was still out with Finn, and Una was working the later shift. She and Finn were getting married next week and would then head for Ireland, so today was her last day at the front desk. I would miss her, but I was excited for her as well.

I pushed the button, waiting for the elevator, when I heard my name being called. Heidi was walking toward me, smiling.

“Hello,” I greeted her. “You look excited.”

She nodded. “I was out picking furniture. I’m going to pack some more things and head to the condo to do a few measurements, then to the airport to pick up my husband.”

“Oh, he’s coming in today?”

“Yes. Just for the weekend to see the place. And me.”

“Of course.” She looked happy, and I felt bad for not going to lunch with her.

“You must be excited to get out of a hotel room and into your new home.”

“You have no idea,” she replied.

The door opened and we stepped on. She pressed the twelfth floor and clapped her hands. “Are you busy for a few moments?”

“Um, no?”