She laughs softly. “He does realize we’re married, right? He’s basically the one who made it happen.”
“I know, but he’s also trying to catch up on being your brother.” I kiss her forehead. “I was thinking we could order pizza and just relax since it’s your day off.”
“Works for me.”
“I’ve got a few things to catch up on. I’m going to head to my office, but I’ll be done in an hour or so.” I kiss her again before stepping into the room next to the kitchen.
The office has huge windows looking out over the side yard. I push open the French doors and immediately see the stacks of law books that still need shelves and my computer sitting there unhooked. Half my time ends up going into getting everything set up.
I know it’s been more than an hour when Vanessa walks in carrying a pizza box and a bottle of wine. “You got a lot done in here,” she says, glancing around.
I look up from my desk and smile. “Has it already been an hour?”
“It’s been a little longer than that.”
“Why didn’t you say anything?” I ask as I stand and walk over to her.
“You looked really focused when I walked by,” she says. I check my watch and realize it’s nearly seven. I came in here before five.
“Shit. I’m sorry.”
“It’s totally okay.” She tilts her head. “What are you working on, anyway?”
“A contract with a family in Italy for supplies on a new project. They keep trying to lowball us.”
“What does that mean?”
“It means we might have to send some of the guys out there to negotiate face to face.”
“Oh.” She studies me. “Would you have to go?”
“Would you want me to?”
She tilts her head, amused. “That feels like a trick question. But no, I wouldn’t be jumping up and down if you had to go.”
“Good to know.” I smile. “So, want to eat dinner? I still need to work later, but I can take a break for a bit.”
We head into the family room next to my office. Vanessa sets the pizza and wine on the coffee table, two glasses already waiting. The TV hums with some reality show until she grabs the remote and switches it to a sporting event. I’ve learned sports are basically white noise to her. She can follow everything while still focusing on something else.
The smell of pepperoni hits me, and I realize I haven’t eaten since this morning. We dig in, talking easily between bites. After three slices, I grab the box with what’s left, knowing I’ll probably be back for it later. Vanessa follows me into the kitchen, setting the wine on the counter and loading the glasses into the dishwasher.
“Could I help you put stuff away in your office?” she asks.
“Sure, just so you know I’ll be pretty focused on this contract.”
“I know. I kind of like watching you work.”
“Is that so?” I say, smiling as I back her gently against the counter. “I wouldn’t mind having an assistant.” I kiss her softly before we head back into the office.
I sit down and start reviewing the contract while Vanessa begins organizing the boxes scattered around the room. The more I read, the worse it looks. They’re planning to short us on supplies to drive up the cost. I don’t know how they thought we wouldn’t catch it. I pull out my phone and text Gino to see if he knows anything about it.
Me
Have you reviewed the contract from the Russos?
Gino
No, you’re the lawyer. You review it.
