But Vickie was on her way out the bedroom door, and Gia was forced to follow. When they got back into the living room, Gia was shocked to find it vacant. He’d said he didn’t mind waiting. Then again, she had no idea why he would’ve wanted to. If she could’ve left, she would’ve.
“Well this blows,” Vickie said as she collapsed on the couch. “All this work, and he’s not here to see it.”
And that’s for the best.“Guess that means it’s you and me for pizza.”
Vickie smiled. “And beer. Oh, and you’re buying.”
“Of course. Are you ready to go?”
“You’re not going out with me looking like that. Go put on the finishing touches so I’ll feel like I have some serious competition out there,” Vickie said teasingly.
Gia grabbed a pillow off the couch and threw it at Vickie before going back in her room. As she put on some mascara and lip gloss, Gia couldn’t help but wonder why Roger had really stopped by. Pulling out her cell she sent him a text. IS EVERYTHING OKAY?
He replied: I WENT TO GRAB THE JEEP INSTEAD. BE BACK IN FIVE.
That was good news because she wanted to talk to him about the project. That didn’t mean she didn’t want him around for other reasons as well.
When she returned to the living room, she said, “Mr. Han—Roger, is on his way back. He needed to step out for a few minutes.”
“Good. I was starting to like the guy, and if he blew you off for lunch, that might have changed.”
Gia laughed. “I have a feeling it would take more than that.”
“Not where you’re concerned.”
Vickie didn’t have a malicious bone in her body, but she did speak her mind. “Have you decided to join us?”
“Heck no! There isn’t going to be anything juicy to hear if I’m sitting in the middle. And yes, that’s a hint. Step it up. Don’t you dare let that man get away cause you’re shy. If you like him, show him.” Vickie gave her a quick hug and said, “Remember show not tell. Your analytical mind can’t wrap itself around feelings.”
“What exactly does that mean?”
“That you will probably trip yourself up or become tongue-tied. If you like him, put your hand on his thigh on the drive. Or reach over and let your fingers brush his so he knows you want to hold hands. I can’t believe you’re thirty-one and I still need to tell you how to do this.”
“I know how to please a man.” She wasn’t a virgin. Gia had dated in the past. They just hadn’t worked out. Mostly because she was focused on her career.
“I’m talking about what comes before that. You know, flirting. Batting those beautiful eyelashes at him and things like that.”
“Vickie, I appreciate you doing my hair and lending me clothes, but really, I can manage this relationship myself.”
Vickie smiled. “Finally.”
“What?”
“You admitted it. You like the guy and called it a relationship. My work here is done.”
Gia rolled her eyes and shook her head. So glad you’re not coming with us. As Vickie headed out the door, Gia asked, “Are you coming back later?”
“Nope, but I’ll be waiting for your call.”
I’m sure you will.
Roger knew the ladies were occupied. Picking up the pizza and beer seemed the easiest thing to do. Of course he hadn’t expected to find Vickie leaving when he pulled up.
“Perfect timing.”
“Are you leaving?” Roger asked.
“My work here is done. Besides, you don’t need me hanging around.”