Page 53 of All The Ways to Miss You

I clear my throat and step away. “Let’s check out the roof deck. I’m the only agent in town with access.”

On the roof, James leans over a railing, gazing out at the view. “This is pretty spectacular, and you’re right. The partners will love it.”

“Should we set a time to bring them over?” I clench my papers to my chest. A surge of relief rushes over me as Ozzy’s house on Astor Street flashes behind my eyes. It’s within reach.

“I’d like to get the LOI in motion. In case Mock and Cohan are serious.” He grins like he doesn’t believe me.

“How about Monday morning?”

“Not soon enough.” He removes his cell and taps its screen. “How about right now?” Speaking into the phone, he says, “Hey, Jess. Pass me through to Walter.”

James meanders to the other side of the deck for privacy. While he’s occupied, I pull out my cell. It’s been buzzing nonstop since I left the office. I’m relieved when I see it’s only Aggie.

Aggie

Evan must really want 2 talk 2 u. He came back.

I text her, my fingers racing over the buttons.

Cait

Let him. I’ll be here forever. They like this property.

Aggie

Really? YAY! But do u want me 2 say anything 2 Evan?

Cait

If he bugs you, tell him I’ll talk to him tonight.

When James approaches, I slip my phone into my purse and give him my full attention.

“They’re on their way,” he says.

twenty-three

The partners of James’s firm arrive an hour later. After giving them a lengthy tour of the property and answering every question, I’m fairly certain they’ll write a letter of intent. But still, I’m cautiously excited.

Before they leave, I shake everyone’s hand and wish them a nice weekend. They funnel out of the lobby, appearing pleased.

“When will you have the floor plans with the current conditions available?” James pulls his wool coat over his shoulders and straightens his lapels. He secures the buttons.

“They’re ready. I’ll run back to the offi—” My words fade when I remember Evan’s at the office waiting for me. I can’t afford for this day to take a turn for the worse. I clear my throat and continue. “Actually, now that think about it, I can access them from my laptop at home. I’ll run there and send them out.”

“Can I take you? I have a car waiting outside.”

I consider his offer. The sooner I deliver the floor plans, the quicker negotiations can start. “That’s nice. Thank you.”

Outside the building, James opens the back door of a dark sedan. He slides in after me. With the car’s tinted windows, the space darkens when he pulls the door shut. The driver weaves the car into traffic.

It’s Friday during rush hour. The roads are jam-packed. Brake lights glow red and horns honk. Our crawl doesn’t seem to bother James. He’s chatty, his hands animated when he speaks, and flirty and charming with his compliments.

If things were different, I might give him a chance. But if things were different, I probably wouldn’t be sitting here right now. I do my best to steer the conversation toward the deal, toward the weather, toward anything other than us. When the car glides to a stop outside my building, I reach for the handle to escape.

“I’ll run upstairs to send the plans, and then I’ll be back to chat.” I press the door open with my foot and slide out.

“Take your time. I have some calls to make.”