“My lawyers went over the contracts,” Timothy said, not bothering with pleasantries. “Everything seems to be in order.”
“That’s wonderful,” I said. “I’m glad to hear it.”
“Jonathan and I will sign them tomorrow,” Timothy said. “Your office should have them by the end of the day.”
“Thank you,” I said, trying to keep the eagerness out of my voice. “I look forward to working with you, Mr. Harrington.”
“And Michael?” Timothy said. “Don’t screw this up.”
With that, Timothy hung up, and I was left with a dial tone. I shook my head and exhaled sharply as I laid the phone back down. My entire body felt light as air. Not only did I spend the morning with an amazing woman, but I just landed the biggest account of my career.
I couldn’t wait another second. Without thinking, I pulled the napkin with Julie’s number out of my pocket and smoothed it out on my desk. I dialed her number and grinned as I sat back and listened to the phone ring.
“Hello?” Julie’s voice was just as sweet and seductive as it had been in person.
“Hey there, it’s Michael,” I said. “Any luck on the job front?”
Julie laughed. “Not yet,” she said. “But I won’t find anything if you keep distracting me.”
“Distracting you?” I asked. I raised my eyebrows and grinned, knowing she couldn’t see me.
“First this morning,” she said with a sigh. “And now, this phone call. How’s a girl ever supposed to get anything done?”
“I’ll make you a deal,” I said.
“Oh?” Julie asked playfully.
“I’ll stop distracting you,” I said. “If you agree to come to dinner with me tomorrow night.”
“Tomorrow night?” I could hear the hesitation in her voice, and my stomach dropped.
“Just dinner,” I said quickly. “I know a place.”
Julie paused for a second, and I held my breath. I’d been flying so high after my conversation with Timothy that I didn’t even consider the possibility that she might say no.
“Sure,” Julie said. “Sounds great.”
“Text me your address,” I said. “I’ll pick you up at seven.”
***
Thursday dragged on miserably. I barely worked that day. Marcy kept asking if I was okay, but I was more than okay. Just the prospect of seeing Julie again was enough to keep my spirits high. I was concerned about how into her I already was, but I decided to run with it. What was the worst that could happen?
“I’m out of here,” I told Marcy as I pulled my office door closed behind me. “See you tomorrow.”
“Have fun tonight, Mr. Smart.” Marcy grinned slyly.
“Been eavesdropping, Marcy?” I asked.
“Never.” Marcy winked, making me laugh. I shook my head and hurried outside, climbing behind the wheel of my car and speeding toward home.
Once I was showered and dressed, I left to pick up Julie. She came to the door dressed in a simple blue dress that made her eyes even more striking. Her hair was curled slightly, drawing my eyes and making my heart race.
“You look go
rgeous,” I said. “Not that you need to be told.”
“A woman always needs compliments,” Julie said wisely. “Even if she says otherwise.”