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I smiled, genuinely happy for him. “I’m glad it’s working out. You’ve worked hard these last few years to get it here.”
“Yes, and once we get the teams working in-country, they can really help the businesses get back on their feet.”
“Well, God knows they need to get there,” I commented and glanced at my computer as a new email pinged on my computer notifications.
He was quiet for a moment as I pulled up the email. “I had a nice time last night.”
I shifted my gaze away from my computer and smiled. “I did too.”
“Any chance you might be available tonight for a second date?”
I laughed slightly. “Oh, was last night our first one?”
He cocked his head. “I’d like to think it’s the first of many, Alexandra.”
“As nice as that would be, I’m afraid I have plans tonight,” I replied.
“Ah, well, okay, maybe next week. I have to go away Friday night and won’t be back until Sunday evening.”
“That’s right, you’re heading to New York, aren’t you?”
“Yes,” he paused, “you know, you could come. You’ve been working on that financial plan, too. I’m sure I could use the help during the meetings, and there is a nice dinner planned Saturday night. We could use the weekend to get to know one another.”
Well, as exciting as that might sound to visit New York City, I wasn’t sure I was ready to go away for a weekend with Ralph. I had too many mixed feelings right now.
“Thank you, but I already have several things happening this weekend.”
He smiled and shrugged before he got up. “Can’t blame a guy for trying.” I chuckled as he turned for the door. “Maybe you can make it on the next trip.”
“Yes, maybe,” I replied noncommittally.
Ralph left my office a few minutes later, and I stared unseeingly at my computer. I didn’t have any plans for tonight, or for this weekend, but until I figured out this thing with Alex, I wasn’t sure it was right to lead Ralph on.
After work, I headed home, and at the bottom of the stairs, I paused. Should I go knock on his door? If I did, what would I say? Excuse me, Alex, but can you kiss me again? I need to know if I imagined the fireworks or not.
I shook my head at myself and hustled up the stairs. I spent the evening watching television and cleaning my apartment, and when I got to work on Friday, I was disappointed that I hadn’t seen Alex again.
I was getting the mail out of my box that evening when I heard a young girl laughing and turned toward the outside door to see Alex coming in. In front of him was a young lady who was grinning up at him like he was everything to her. My heart melted a bit as I saw him put his hand on her shoulder and smile down at her.
I shut the mailbox door, and he lifted his head. “Lexi,” He seemed surprised and shot a quick glance at the girl with him. “How are you?”
“I’m fine, Alex. Who is this beautiful young lady?”
“Hi! I’m his daughter, Veronica, but everyone calls me Nica.” She put her hand out to me, and I took it with surprise. Not because he had a daughter, I’d already figured that out, but because she had incredible manners.
“Well, hello, Nica. I’m Lexi, a neighbor of your father’s.”
Alex had his arm around her shoulders, his eyes filled with pride. “Nica is staying with me this weekend while her mother is out of town.”
“That sounds like fun.” For a moment, we stared at one another. Was he thinking about the kiss? Did he regret it? Want to do it again?
His daughter snapped us back to attention. “Dad’s taking me to the aquarium tomorrow.”
“Oh, that sounds like a lot of fun. I love the aquarium,” I replied to her. “I hope you both have a great time.”
“Thanks,” Nica said with a smile.
My gaze locked on Alex’s again for a moment, and then I forced myself to look away. “Well, you two have a great weekend.” I gave a small wave and turned to head up the stairs.
