I took a deep breath, not really wanting to, but it probably wasn’t a good career move to say no. “Sure. That’s fine. I’m heading out now, so I’ll just meet you there?”
“I’m going to grab my things and I’ll see you in a few minutes.”
I found my phone in my purse and made my way through the hospital. I knew the coffee shop that Connor was referring to; I had been there a number of times. I sent Max a quick text and let him know I would be a few minutes later than I thought.
Me:Hey! I had something come up at work, so I’ll be a few minutes late. Maybe fifteen or so? Shouldn’t be long.
Max: No worries. I was getting ready to text you. I got pulled in to a late lunch over this bid I’m working on. I’m actually close to the hospital.
The thoughtof him being close made me smile. I stopped before opening the exit to finish our conversation.
Me:So I’ll be home first then?
Max: Probably. I’ll be a good half hour or so.
Me: Since I don’t know your plans, should I prepare in some way for later? ;)
Max: Wear red.
Me: Done. xo
I laughedas I shoved the phone in my pocket and started to open the doors.
“Let me get that for you.” Connor pushed his hand in front of me and held the door open.
“Thank you.”
“No problem. Thank you for taking a few minutes to talk to me.”
I walked into the bright sunlight and shivered a little. “It’s finally starting to cool off,” I remarked, putting on my jacket and sticking my hands in my pockets.
“It is. Reminds me more of Salt Lake City than usual.”
“Is that where you’re from?” I asked as Connor pushed the button to change the pedestrian signal.
He smiled. “It is. I’ve lived here for a year or so now. I like the sunshine, what can I say?”
“I like the sunshine, too. This is definitely the place to live for that.” The light changed and we made our way across the street and up the sidewalk. “What brought you to Mary Sherman?”
We walked leisurely in front of a couple of restaurants before Connor opened the door to the coffee shop. “I took a spot in a doctor’s office that is associated with it. So now I do rounds here. I’ve worked out of Phoenix until the last couple of weeks.”
We walked to the counter and ordered our drinks. The barista, a pretty brunette, made small talk and bedroom eyes at him while he ordered. Eventually, I just walked to a booth in the front by the windows and grabbed a seat.
It was such a pretty day and would be a great day for a hike. I considered seeing if Max would want to go for a walk later on.
Unless he wears me out first.
I was pulling my phone out to send Max a text, demanding a hint as to what was to come, when Connor arrived with our drinks.
“One cappuccino for you and a black coffee, two sugars for me.” He grinned as he sat down.
“Thank you.” I wrapped my hands around the warm foam. “So what do I owe the pleasure of this coffee meeting?”
He watched me over the brim of his cup while he took a sip then cleared his throat. “I want to offer you a job.”
I laughed. “I have a job.”
“You do. And you’re very good at it.”
