Yours Seductively

Chapter 6.3 (Part 2)

   "And Mrs. Barns?"

   Hearing the uncertainty in her voice, he sighed wearily. "I didn't fire her."

   "I'm glad."

   "But I did make it clear that I want her to be prepared for any eventuality when it comes to Tom and Amy."

   "And what did she say?"

   "That it had been a while since her son was young and she'd almost forgotten how quickly they could get into mischief. She assured me she won't forget again."

   "I doubt that she will. She looked genuinely worried about Tom this afternoon."

   "She was," he conceded. "And she did call me the moment she realized he was missing."

   "You might suggest to her that she try a slightly different approach with Tom. He complained to me that she talks down to him, and he doesn't like that."

   "Yes, he finally told me the same thing. I'll talk to her about it tomorrow."

   "Good. Was there anything else?"

   "You're still annoyed with me," he said in resignation.

   "Maybe just a little," she confessed, and he was pleased to hear a hint of ruefulness in her voice—as though she was prepared to forgive him, he thought hopefully. "You were kind of jerky to me."

   Even after what had happened between them that afternoon, even suspecting that it wasn't a good idea, he wanted to see her again. Needed to see her again. And soon. "What can I do to make it up to you?"

   "I don't know. I was pretty mad."

   Relieved that she'd gotten past it enough to tease him, he responded in kind. "How about dinner? Would that be enough to make you forgive me?"

   "Maybe..."

   "And if I throw in a movie?"

   "Add a large box of Gummy Bears and you're well on your way to being completely forgiven."

   "I'll even spring for popcorn," he said, hoping his deep relief wasn't entirely evident in his voice.

   "Nah. Movie popcorn's never tasted as good since they made it healthier."

   "The new Tom Hanks film is playing in Carrolton," he suggested.

   "Sounds Good. When?"

   "Friday?" It wasn't soon enough, but it would have to do.

   "Friday. Oh, and Ty?"

   "Yes?"

   There was undisguised laughter in her voice when she replied, "Be prepared to grovel."

   With that, she hung up the phone.

   It was with some surprise that Tyler realized he was smiling as he placed his own receiver. He hadn't expected this day to end with a smile. He could credit Jane for that, of course.

   Maybe he'd go to bed early tonight. He was tired, and not really in the mood for brooding.

   He supposed he could thank Jane for that, too.