“I was obviously starving,” Julia said, pulling me away from my thoughts.
The bowl before her was nearly as empty as mine.
“How well do your mother and Marlin get along?”
Julia shrugged. “I mean, Marlin is Dad’s friend. Over time, the couples have gotten close. Mom and Gwen are better friends than Mom and Marlin.” Her forehead furrowed. “Why?”
“Just curious.” I looked at my watch. “We should move on soon. I’ll flag down our waitress.”
Reaching for her purse, Julia whispered. “I’ll be right back.”
“Don’t be long.”
For a moment, I enjoyed the sight of her walking away. From the way her blond hair was pulled up and back, cascading in waves down her back, to her slender neck and proud shoulders, down her trim waist, and sexy round ass, Julia was a vision.
Before she disappeared around a corner, my gaze went to the bodyguard at the nearby booth. He nodded. As he stood to watch the bathroom, I reached for my phone and read the messages I’d missed during our lunch. The first text message was from Connie.
Mr. Sherman, your appointment is confirmed at Tiffany at three p.m.
I texted back.
You’re a wonder. The suite is perfect. Remind me that you deserve a raise.
The other waiting text was from Lena.
Are you staying in Chicago long? Also, Jeremy has some interesting information for you—us. Call me when you can.
Did he have more information than what he’d sent earlier? My curiosity was piqued. I sent a quick reply.
Our schedule is up in the air. Still a long way from Montana.
That was Lena’s current home base. She’d had enough of Chicago many years ago. She’d been in Washington state, delving in the world of computers and electronics. Montana was a recent move for her. Missoula, on the western edge of Montana, was a budding world of technology. It wasn’t Silicone Valley yet, but it was quietly making a name for itself. Lena’s investments included start-up companies that were making waves as well as cryptocurrency.
Lena replied.
Lucky for you, I’m not far away. Holidays, remember?
The coffee I’d just consumed left a sour taste as I responded.
Let me know if you’re in the city. I’ll check my schedule.
Her response was almost instantaneous.
(Laughing emoji) You do that, Van. I’m more interested in Julia’s schedule. Funny story. I remembered she and I have met. It’s time to reminisce.
My initial response was to ask about their meeting. My next was to tell Lena that Julia and I were leaving the city tonight. As I debated, out of the corner of my eye, I saw our waitress walk my way.
Choosing not to respond to Lena, I slid the phone back in my pocket as I handed the waitress my credit card, sipping the remaining contents of my coffee.
A few minutes later Julia returned.
She peered down at me, her head tilting. “Is everything all right?”
“As long as I have you.”
Her blue eyes sparkled. “Only for forever.”