Page 46 of The Boss and the Wedding Mess

“What happened to the 2 PM appointment?”

“Called in sick. Sports injury. Twisted his ankle playing tennis, but he wants to be back Monday.”

“I see.” I nod gratefully and turn to leave. But this time, she stops me.

“Has your cleaning lady gotten in touch?”

“No. Unfortunately not yet. I’ve called her twice—nothing. All the ads she had online for more work have disappeared. I’m afraid she’s not coming back.”

“I might know someone. She’s reliable and dedicated,” she says.

“If you recommend her, gladly. Just one thing,” I say, looking serious enough that London briefly looks intimidated. “She shouldn’t be impulsive. I prefer calm people around me. Unless it’s in sports.”

“She’s the definition of calm.”

“Perfect. If my housekeeper doesn’t show up Saturday, feel free to send your friend to me.”

“Can I get your address?”

“I’ll text it to you.”

“And, um, what time?”

“Around eleven? She usually comes at ten, so an extra hour should be enough.”

London nods and goes back to her computer.

“I’ll take care of everything.”

“Including coffee?”

She smiles at that. That’s better. No more death glares at me.

“I’ll bring it in a minute. I turned on the machine earlier but you’re twenty minutes early.”

“Sounds good, Miss Waverley.”

“Always a pleasure, Mr. Blackthorn,” she jokes back.

We both smile. But now I really leave and head into my office. A lot of work is waiting today.

At exactly 1:00, there’s a knock at the door. I’d been lost in thought and forgot Stephanie was coming. She just walks in before I can even respond.

“Hey. Right on time,” I say, standing up. In the background, I see London, who must have walked her up.

“I’ll take my break now,” I hear her say.

“Enjoy,” I reply, then turn to Stephanie, who’s armed with two large paper bags.

“Hey,” she greets me. We hug warmly while London closes the door.

“Did you get here okay?”

“Yes. Wow, your office looks amazing. Not bad at all.” She sets down the two bags and walks over to the windows. “This is the way to work. Such a wonderful view. You can even see Big Ben from here.”

“Yes, but I still have to work,” I say with a smile.

Stephanie trails a giant cloud of perfume behind her—something like honey, floral, and coconutty. Like she bathed in it. With her white skirt and soft pink blouse, she looks girlish, playfully feminine. “What treats did you bring?”