Page 261 of A Matter of Time

“God, I’m so sick of being sick. I need to have this kid already.”

“It’s only a couple more weeks, Dyl. Just rest.”

She appreciated me trying to rally her spirits and told me she loved me before she got off the phone. I called Aubrey immediately afterward. My pinch hitter promised to be in the office the following Monday morning at eight sharp. I told her I didn’t do sharp, I did ish, as in nine-ish.

“Ish?” She giggled.

“So ish,” I assured her. “Dylan and I might be a little laid-back, but still…eight in the morning is just obscene.”

“Okay, partner,” she sighed into the phone. “Nine-ish it is.”

When I asked how her date had gone with Rick Jenner, she said it wasn’t over yet.

Apparently, they had been inseparable since they’d had dinner.

“No.” I was stunned.

“Oh yes,” she said, and I could hear the smile in her voice.

“Have you even gone home yet?”

She had no comment. I chuckled, and she groaned.

“He’s a good guy.” I championed my brother’s friend.

“He’s a phenomenal guy,” she corrected me, “and so damn hot.”

I grunted. “I’ll take your word for it.”

“And speaking of hot guys…who was the gorgeous man I saw you leaving the Corner Diner with last night?”

“I didn’t see you.”

“No, I know. I yelled, but you were too far away. But who cares! Who was the guy?”

“Sam.”

“Oooh,” she purred. “Do you realize you just sighed when you said his name?”

“I did not.”

“Oh, I think ya did. Who is he?”

“He’s a police detective.”

“Well, he’s totally yummy. I approve.”

“Stop.”

“And can I just say what a stunning couple you guys make? I mean, holy shit, drop-dead, could-not-take-my-eyes-off-of-you-guys gorgeous.”

“No, we don’t, but you and Rick, on the other hand…really beautiful.”

“Well, thank you very much.” She squealed suddenly, and her throaty laughter filled my ears.

“Whatcha doin’, babe?” I teased her.

“Shut up.” She laughed more. “Richard Jenner, go away. I’m trying to talk to Jor—” A second later she was gone, and I smiled wide. It would be interesting to find out what Dane thought of his friend’s new girl when he got back from his honeymoon.