The Unlikely Couple [COMPLETED]

Chapter Sixteen

I munched attentively away, observing the magnitude of skill and grace that Sarah Jessica Parker had as she played a rushed Carrie Bradshaw, running down the street in heels. If I could ever learn to have her poise and sophistication, I think life would be great. I pulled the bowl of pita bread closer, which I’d grilled with my George Foreman to accompany the fresh container of hummus on my lap.

“Hello?” I chewed, answering the phone and pressing the volume button with my elbow.

“Afternoon Miss Harris.”

“Mr Bishop, how is your day?” I smiled, wiping the crumbs off my chin.

“Annoying. I’m about to go into a meeting that will span for more than two hours. I hate Sunday meetings.”

“That sucks.” Aw, poor Hal.

“What’re you up to?” He moved into a quiet area.

“Eating, watching television. Living the lazy writer’s life.” Incredibly lazy at the moment.

“That sounds great. I wanted to talk to you now since I won’t be available much. Haylen has a birthday tonight and tomorrow.” Hal groaned at the thought.

“It’d be adorable to see you surrounded by children, chasing after them and climbing on the playground.”

“Me and playgrounds don’t mix. It’s not always great to be this tall.” The line became scratchy.

“Hal you’re cutting out.” I yelled.

“Is this better?” He returned to the bustling halls.

“A lot. What were you saying?” Crap, I need more bread.

“On Thursday, after your birthday, I have to fly to Wagga Wagga.” Hal said. “It’s only for the weekend, but it would be great if you came.” My attention diverted from the television to the phone. I pressed pause and took the bowl to the kitchen.

“Are you sure you want me there?” A trip with Hal? We haven’t even had sex (except that one time) and he wants to fly together?

“Of course. Business trips are always boring. Maybe you could bring some excitement.” There was a hint of cheekiness in his tone.

“I’ll think about it and get back to you.” I very much liked the idea of spending the weekend with him.

“That doesn’t sound promising.” His voice grew a tad sad. After a second I folded.

“Yes, I’ll go.” I laughed at his strategy.

“Thank you.” The cheekiness returned. “I’ll call you later with the details.”

“Do I have to pay?” I jumped up on the kitchen bench.

“Of course not Stacey.”

“If you said that in the first place I would have said yes immediately.”

“I wanted to convince you without the offer.” Hal said, his laugh echoing through the phone. “I have to run, but I’ll ring you soon. Bye gorgeous girl.” Oh goodness, Hal.

“Bye handsome Hal.” I returned the alliteration, hanging up from the sweet man. Within seconds the phone shrilled in my hand, but I couldn’t identify the number. “Hello, Stacey speaking.”

“Little Miss Stacey.” Bradley chuckled. “Good to talk to you.”

“Bradley, how are you?” I snatched a Pepsi from the fridge.

“I feel great. I brought the last of my stuff to the new apartment.”

“You already moved out?” That’s really surprising, but not unusual for Bradley.