Page 26 of Be My Valentine

“I didn’t mean… it’s just that…” Kate sighed, “I lost my job at the pub. I used to dine there, it’s not bad, in a way: a recharge before we jump into the fray among the customers, a way to relax and have a chat.”

“Which you can’t do with me.”

“Because I’m always afraid I’m going to say something wrong,” Kate admitted candidly, “The one time I talked freely with you, I risked being fired.”

“I’ve never thought about firing you. Never.” He pointed out.

“That’s what’s strange. You, for some reason, can’t stand my presence, I raise my voice, after you even bothered to drive me home and I still have my job. Mr. Campbell has always been kind to me, stood up for me when no one else cared, reassured me that I was not at fault and then… boom!” Kate widened her eyes emphatically “He fires me!”

“I can stand your presence.” He said seriously.

“I’m sorry…”

“No.” Mark covered one of her hands with his own “No apologies. Breathe, Kate.”

I can’t breathe, what’s going on? He grabbed my hand!

“You’re going to need a good deal of calm and patience. You’re about to spend many, many hours with Emma every morning.”

Kate finally laughed.

“Your sister is terrifying the hell out of you!”

“Any man in his right mind is afraid of her.”

“Except her husband.”

“On that, Kate, I wouldn’t swear.”

“That’s horrible!” But Kate continued to smile.

“I’m a horrible person.” He winked.

“No, you’re not.” Her tone softened.

“I hope that will remain our secret!”

“I’ll be dumb as a post.”

Mark Arrow paid the bill, and they reached the car.

“You don’t have to drive me, it’s quite a drive with traffic, I’ll take the subway.”

Mark opened the door on the passenger side.

“Get in, or I’ll unceremoniously throw you in the SUV.” Kate arched an amused eyebrow “Don’t test me, you know I’m capable of it.”

“Indeed.” She murmured as she climbed in.

“Someday you’ll explain to me your great love of the New York subway system.”

“We are not yet so familiar that I can tell you about my great love!” She joked.

Mark lingered a moment before starting the engine and turned to her.

“May I know if there is a great love in your life, Kate?”

“Not yet,” she barely murmured to him, “but I hope to find one.” then decided to jump in “What about you and great love?”