Perfectly Pink - An It's Always Been You Romance (Complete)

Chapter 24

To say the conference was boring was an understatement. Simon itched to be out on the streets of New York, scouring the city for good food instead of sitting in this air-conditioned beige room listening to an appliance manufacturer drone on about the latest technology in dish washers. In his early days at the Waterfront Cafe and Bar he'd spent hours washing dishes - by hand.

"... all in less time than it takes to peel five pounds of potatoes." If that was supposed to be a joke, none of his fellow restaurant owners and managers found it funny. The presenter cleared his throat, thanked the group for their time and exited stage right.

A tall woman dressed in a white pantsuit took the stage. "That concludes our session, Ladies and Gentlemen. I hope you've found it useful. I look forward to seeing you in Hall B12 for cocktails."

"Glad that's over." His companion for the past two days, Clara wiped her manicured hand across her forehead in a dramatic fashion and Simon chuckled. She was far more entertaining than half of the presenters at this conference. 

Luck was on his side when he sat beside her this morning, not only due to her amusing antics that made today bearable, but also because the bed-and-breakfast she owned was only two towns over from Bridgetown. They had both instantly agreed that they could help each other's business out, her pointing guests to his restaurant and the new winery for tours once it was open and him directing travelers who stopped at the Waterfront Café to a cute, cozy place to rest for the evening.

They made their way out of the Westin Hotel's meeting block in the direction of the lobby and the elevators to its suites. Even though Simon was anxious to get to his room, drop off his stuff and start exploring the city, he slowed his steps to accommodate Clara's high heel pace.

"Are you going for cocktails?"

He shook his head. "I'm desperate to get out of here and sink my teeth into some New York delicacy. Can't decide between steak, sushi or shish kabob." Another thing Bridgetown lacked was a sushi restaurant.

"I know a great steak house over on third avenue if you want some company."

"Steak is always better when its—"

"Simon?"

He turned toward the sound of his name, not believing his ears. The site of Mary sauntering in his direction, resplendent in a sleeveless, soft pink sundress, her golden hair falling in soft curls around her pale face, made his mouth go dry. It had been almost a week since he'd seen her last; her visit to Washington turning from an overnight stay to an extended babysitting adventure, according to Emily, who kept him up to date on her whereabouts.

"Mary. What are you doing here?"

She stopped a few feet from him, placed her hand on his hip, and tilted her head. "I believe it's a free country and anyone can visit New York."

"Right, of course." Why was this so weird? "It's just... or rather I meant to say, what a pleasant surprise to see you."

"Much better."

Simon's pulse quickened. Was Mary here for him? "Did you know I was here?"

The hand came off the hip and Mary stepped closer, her eyes leaving Simon and landing on his companion. "I don't believe we've met."

Before he could find his manners, Clara stuck out her hand. "Hi, I'm Clara Madison."

"Mary Montgomery." The two women shook hands, and Simon tried to catch up. "How do you two know each other?"

He found his voice. "We just met."

"Oh, and already at a hotel." Mary crossed her arms. "You do move fast."