“If you came down about twelve fifteen, that’d be perfect.” She flashed him a nervous smile.
Hurrying down to meet Ellen, she spotted her long straight glossy locks as soon as she started down the sidewalk toward Papa’s. She’d evidently also caught the eyes of several young men, judging by the way they peered over their shoulders for a second look when they passed by.
“Oh great, you’re on time. Steven is coming, but he doesn’t know you’re going to be here.”
“Terrific.” Ellen’s voice was dripping with sarcasm. “I’ll be his unpleasant surprise. That’s a great way to start.”
“It’s the only way. Trust me.”
Inside Papa’s, May spotted her and hurried over. “Anne, you’re back. You must tell me all about Paris.”
“I didn’t get to go, May. It’s a long story, but my dad was in a car accident and he almost died.”
May and Ellen gasped simultaneously. May asked, “Is he okay?”
“Yes, but several people were killed in the accident. A highway bridge iced over when it started raining. It took out at least ten cars.”
“Anne, I didn’t know. I’m so sorry. And you didn’t get to go to Paris either? That’s a pretty awful Thanksgiving.” A frown formed a wrinkle between Ellen’s eyes.
“My dad is still alive, and I got to see both of my girls. So I’m just counting my blessings.”
“You need to come and catch us up on everything that’s happened. George is pouting because he didn’t get to talk to you the last few times you dropped by,” said May.
“I promise to come soon. We also need to chat about Spencer. But today, I have a favor to ask. Can we sit in the back room? Mr. Gherring is coming.”
“No problem.”
“One more thing. Mr. Gherring doesn’t know Ellen is with me. I’d appreciate it if you wouldn’t mention that fact to him.”
May lifted her eyebrows high and gave Ellen the once over. “So I’m guessing you’re trying to make a match with Mr. Gherring and your friend, here?”
Ellen’s cheeks reddened. “It’s not my idea—I think she’s crazy.”
“I tend to agree with you,” chuckled May. She turned back to Anne. “Honey, I won’t breathe a word.”
Anne’s palms were sweating as they waited for Steven to arrive. Perhaps if she were casual enough, he might think it was an accidental meeting rather than a planned setup. After all, this was the first time she’d actually tried to introduce him to someone. He might not be suspicious.
May led him into the back promptly at twelve fifteen. His pleased expression fell when he noticed Anne had company at the table.
“Hi Mr. Gherring. I hope you don’t mind, but I ran into a friend of mine outside.”
“Hi. Nice to meet you.” He held out his hand and presented a forced smile.
Ellen shook it firmly. “Sorry for imposing, Mr. Gherring. My name is Ellen Dean.”
“Ellen’s an actress.”
“How is it you have so many friends? You’ve only been in New York for a few weeks.” His voice betrayed his irritation.
“Ellen was the only person on the subway who would talk to me.”
He glanced at his watch. “You know, I have a pretty busy afternoon. Why don’t you just bring something up to me, and let me leave you both to a peaceful lunch?”
He started to turn, but Anne put out her hand. “You should stay, Mr. Gherring. Ellen is very interesting. Like I said, she’s an actress. She’s got the leading role in a play that starts next week.”
His brows flew for a moment, and then understanding dawned on his face. His expression turned fierce and dark. Anne felt her fingers trembling. Perhaps this hadn’t been such a great idea.
“May I speak to you privately for a moment, Ms. Best?”