We sat there like that for a while. Her in my lap. Me trying not to wince every time she shifted weight. The drain cycling slowly between us.
This was nice.
Quiet. Comfortable. No immediate crisis requiring attention.
My phone buzzed.
I checked it expecting the delivery confirmation.
Instead found a message from Noel.
We need to establish protocols for Monday's conversation.
I've prepared seventeen questions requiring honest answers.
Attached is a preliminary outline of topics to be discussed.
I opened the attachment. Found a three page document. Single spaced. Color coded.
"Jesus Christ."
Mera looked over my shoulder. "Is that Noel?"
"Yeah."
"She made a presentation about interrogating you?"
"Apparently."
"That's kind of hot actually."
"How is that hot?"
"The dedication. The organization. The barely contained fury underneath all that professionalism." She kissed my neck. "Very sexy."
"Your definition of sexy needs work."
"My definition is perfect."
