“Olivia Cassidy.” My tone slides into its most professional register though I can’t help the smile plastered on my face.
We’ve been talking and texting since Montreal. Our flirting and daily talks remind me of the fun of dating. And while I won’t openly admit it, I look forward to each and every one of our exchanges.
“Ms. Cassidy, just the person I was looking for.” Sam’s deep, sexy voice sends tingles down my spine.
Even after weeks of talking, his voice still affects me. Deep, warm, confident—it fills every empty space around me and makes my pulse skip.
“Sam.” I smile like a schoolgirl with a crush despite myself. “How are you?”
“I’ve been thinking about you all day and needed to hear your voice.”
My breath catches at the way he says it—like he’s stating a fact, not offering flattery. And yet, it’s a loaded confession. One that should scare me, but all I want to do is revel in it and tell him the feeling is mutual.
“It’s great to hear your voice too. I’m glad you called.” Why is it always easier to be truthful over the phone or via text? I’mprettysure if Sam were here in person, while I’d love to see him, I wouldn’t be nearly as bold.
“What’s new with you? Did you get the shipment in today?”
Butterflies take flight in my stomach. He remembered I’d been concerned. That shipment had been a nightmare—delayed paperwork, supplier miscommunication, all of it. Pete never remembered things like that. He barely remembered to ask about my day, let alone specifics. I’m blown away.
“It came on time. And better yet, everything I ordered was there. You should have seen me screaming and dancing like a crazy woman down in the docking area this morning.” I laugh.
“Dancing? Hmmm, I definitely would’ve liked to see that. Were you alone?”
“What? Why?” I tuck my hair behind my ear and wait for his response, not sure what he means.
“I want to know who might have seen your gorgeous body swaying and moving. I don’t like the idea ofother guys getting a look at you.”
“Sam.” I quickly dismiss his caveman comment, although secretly liking it. “I was alone.”
“Good. You will have to dance for me sometime.” His smooth voice skitters across my skin.
“Sam.” I blush, as his voice slides through me like silk, and I have to swallow before I answer. “Tell me about your day.”
“It was okay, but I’d rather talk about you. What are you doing now?”
“I’m at the hotel, finishing a few things, then I’m meeting a prospective client for dinner.”
“Dinner? Do you usually have dinner with potential clients?”
I roll my eyes, smiling. “No, but he’s leaving for Europe tomorrow. It’s the only time he can meet.”
“He?” The tone sharpens again, possessive, just slightly.
Sam asked me similar questions about a week ago when I told him I was going to the theatre with a male client. It was strictly business and the man was married. I was doing the couple a favor, and it was also an opportunity for me to meet new people and promote my business.
“Heis part of a couple. I met his wife earlier in the week and he couldn’t make it then. It’s business.”
“How much older?”
“Sam.” I can’t help but shake my head and snort laugh, more exasperated than amused. “It’s a dinner meeting, and it’ll be over before you’ve plated your first entrée tonight.”
“Sorry, Olivia. I don’t like that I haven’t seen you in weeks…” He exhales. “It’s silly, and I won’t do it again. This long-distance thing is new to me.”
“Me too.” I soften my tone, not thrilled with his behavior but also enjoying the attention. He cares. “You’ve got nothing to worry about. I’m not looking to start anything with anyone else. What we have is working out just fine.”
“Just fine? That’s it?”
“Better than fine.” A huge smile eclipses my face. “Amazing.”
