Page 25 of Sullivan

“I took some time off, actually. Relaxed a bit.”

“Well, thanks to God you didn’t travel. I had a friend at the cottage.”

“I heard that message.”

“Good thing. Lunch? We’ll catch up.”

“Booked already. How about drinks tonight? Say six?”

“Sounds good.”

“Maybe a bite of supper after.”

“I like the sound of that. The Goat?” she asked, choosing our favorite pub.

“Perfect. I’ll see you there.”

She hung up without saying goodbye, which was her usual fashion.

I stared at the phone, then sent a quick text to Autumn.

Meeting Bonnie for drinks at six. Care to join for dinner after if she doesn’t kill me?

Also, you looked far too sexy this morning. I had a hard time leaving and not waking you first.

She replied a moment later.

What if she asks directly? I don’t want to lie to her.

I doubt she will, but if so, then I trust you to tell her what you are comfortable with. Otherwise, I will tell her tonight.

Okay. How will I know if you’re alive?

I laughed.

I’ll let you know when the smoke clears.

I waited as she typed.

Send me info, and I’ll be there. I was so exhausted I didn’t even hear you leave. I love my flower, though.

Good.

And you’re damn sexy yourself, Mr. Black. I wouldn’t have minded being woken up by you.

I’ll remember that.

You do.

Later, mo fhiadh beag.

xx

I stared at the two little kisses for a moment. I couldn’t recall the last time I had used texting to flirt or tease someone. I knew without a doubt the last few women I’d dated never ended a text with x’s. Or were so easygoing by telling me they would meet me somewhere. In fact, the last woman I dated wanted a car service to pick her up every time, even if I was able to drive myself. She liked being chauffeured around. And a pub wouldn’t do—her idea of a casual date was no tuxedos on the waiters. She drained me fast, and we didn’t last long. Autumn was a breath of fresh air for me.

And I had to admit, I was already obsessed.

AUTUMN