29 Nighttime (1/2)

Meaghan felt her pulse accelerate when those words registered. She gulped, unable to think of anything to say.

”Meggie?”The unfamiliar endearment caught her off guard, but settled her emotions somewhere near her heart.

”I'm here.” She sounded surprisingly calm, given the tumult inside. She licked her lips and gripped the phone tighter.

”I miss you, too.”

Rickie felt his soul soar when those sweet sounds registered. He settled back against the leather, barely noticing anything in his surroundings, his whole focus the beautiful words and the woman behind them.

”I was busy all day today; otherwise I would have stopped by your desk. Is everything to your liking at work?” He nearly cursed out loud – why suddenly talk about work?

He could almost hear her smile. ”Yes, it's been challenging, but I've enjoyed it so far. As a matter of fact, I have something I'd like to show you. I think there may be a link, but I can't seem to put the pieces together. Do you have any time tomorrow?”

”How about we discuss it over lunch?” Rickie blurted.

A low laugh greeted this; it slid down his spine like warm honey.

”I don't think we'd better.” She said, ”I'm going to get fat if I keep eating at restaurants.”

Rickie tried again. ”How about a picnic? I could have something put together, and we could go to the waterfront.” He held his breath.

Meaghan thought a moment, but then regretfully replied.

”I don't think so. I don't want people gossiping about…us.” Her voice trailed off as she realized she was already thinking of them as a couple. ”Some other time perhaps. I can't do anything after work because…”

”…because of your sister's birthday party.” Rickie finished, then tensed.