Page 24 of Sullivan

Istood over Autumn, hating to leave her but knowing I had to get to the office and prepare for the busy day ahead. Waking up beside her was still very new, and I liked it. I liked how she felt wrapped around me, her soft breath warm on my skin. I loved the little noise of protest she made when I slipped from the bed and the way she burrowed into the pillow I slid toward her, smiling as she slipped back into sleep, no doubt breathing in my scent.

Her fragrance was all around me, clinging to my skin. I hated the idea of showering it off but looked forward to having it all over me again later.

I looked around, not wanting to leave without saying goodbye. I spied a notepad on the desk with the customary pen all hotels provided. As I lifted a piece of paper, a memory struck of Aunt Roisin, Finn, and Niall one weekend. I had been staying over, and it had begun to piss down rain, trapping us in the small house. This was long before Netflix and streaming services, and TV service was iffy at the best of times in the small village where Roisin lived. She’d decided to teach us origami—a craft she had learned years ago. She was patient as she guided us through the steps, explaining the basics. Finn and Niall grew bored quickly and returned to their games, but I actually enjoyed it and Roisin taught me several small pieces. I hadn’t made any in years, but suddenly, my fingers began to fold and crease the piece of paper in my hand. Before I realized it, I had made a small flower. I added a note, wrapping it around the little stem, and placed it on the pillow beside Autumn. Even asleep, I felt the draw I had to her and stirrings of desire. I bent and pressed a soft kiss to her head.

“Until later, mo fhiadh beag.”

Then, regretfully, I left her.

Two hours later, Lloyd walked in, carrying a steaming cup of coffee from the local spot he knew I liked. Theirs was brewed in small batches, using the best beans, and I preferred it to the more well-known chains. I was behind my desk, showered, dressed, and deep into the workload waiting for me. I glanced up, noticing his serious face.

“Do I still have a job?” he semi-joked. “I had no idea I was sending you into a storm and trapping you for the weekend.” He held out the cup. “Maybe this will do as a start to my apologies?”

I accepted the cup, taking a long, appreciative sip. I had read his texts and emails on the train last night, chuckling at his horror and questions if I had even made it as far as Lachlan.

I sat back, shaking my head. “Actually, you deserve a raise. I made it there and had a great weekend.”

Dramatically, he sighed and threw himself into the chair across from me. “Thank God.”

I laughed, both of us knowing I would never fire him. He was far too efficient and did his job well.

He lifted one eyebrow. “How big a raise are we talking?”

“Enough to buy you lunch at your favorite takeaway.” I paused. “And I’ll have combo two.”

He laughed. “I’ll take it. But seriously, everything was okay?”

“Yes. Nothing to do but, ah, relax,” I fibbed lightly. “I ate a lot, slept, and shoveled more snow than I recall seeing in years.”

“Well, you look good. A bit tired, but not exhausted the way you looked when you left. I knew you needed a break.”

There was a reason I looked tired, and her name was Autumn. But I was keeping that information to myself. “And you were right.”

“Always am.”

I waved my hand, dismissing him. “I need more information on these files.” I handed him two folders. “As much background as you can find.”

“On it.”

My phone rang, and I chuckled. It hadn’t taken Bonnie long to ring me. Lloyd stood.

“I’ll get on these right away.”

“Great.”

“I’ll order lunch for twelve. I’m getting extra spring rolls. We can go through your week while we eat.”

“Good plan.”

I picked up my phone. “Bonnie. How’s my favorite cousin?”

“Good God, man, do you ever answer your phone? I’ve been calling all weekend.”

“I left it at the office,” I fibbed. “I got all your messages today. I was going to call as soon as I cleared my desk a little.”

She snorted. “As if you weren’t there on the weekend and probably by six this morning.”

It was odd that I noticed her accent this morning. Heavily Scottish, mixed at times with a touch of Irish. Autumn’s voice was quieter, with a lilt, her accent softer, gentler than either of our brogues.