And So I Ran - Complete

Chapter 34

I was sitting at my desk at GEH on Monday morning, flying a solar powered toy helicopter around my office. It was a close match to Charlie Tango. Ana said she'd seen it in a toy store and knew I had to have it for my birthday. She'd also bought me a watch and cufflink tray, which now sat in pride of place on 'my' side of our bedroom dresser.

My cell rang, and I would have cursed, except it was a snippet of The Ronettes' tune, 'Baby I Love You.' Ana's ringtone. I flew the helicopter back to my desk, putting down the controls and picking up my phone.

"Hey! How are you feeling?" I'd had an early meeting, so Ana had been eating breakfast when I left.

"Good. Mrs. Jones sent me with lunch, fruit and some crackers, but so far so good."

We both paused.

"So, Dr. Greene called..."

"AND?!"

"And I hope you have a good day at work today... Daddy."

Ana whispered the last word, but my heart soared.

"Really!? She's sure!?"

"No doubt about it. We'll have our first scan in a fortnight at Escala."

I took down the details. I'd get Andrea to put it in my diary and let her know it wasn't to be moved under any circumstance. Now Ana was a permanent fixture in my life, I'd also better let Andrea know to consult with Ana on my social engagements and travel. Ana and I chatted a few more minutes before she had to go back to work. I didn't like the idea of her working – if I'd had my way she'd be curled up in our bed at home – but one incredulous look when I'd suggested that this morning had been enough to silence my arguments.

"Andrea? Can you come in?" I said after punching a digit on my phone. Moments later Andrea stepped into my office, coiffed and calm as always. But the presence of a wizzing toy helicopter flitting around the room was enough to make her smile.

"A birthday present from Anastasia," I said with a smile and a shrug as I flew it back to my desk. I thought I heard her mumble something about boys and their toys before she sat in front of my desk.

"Yes. Happy birthday, sir."

"Andrea? I wanted to let you know that Miss Steele has agreed to move in with me. Permanently. Accordingly, I'd like her consulted about which social engagements to accept. She will be my plus one for the events I attend, so I'd appreciate you letting her know which are more important and brief her on them accordingly. Could you also book a beauty appointment for her the afternoon before any event for any necessary hair and beauty treatments?"

"At Esclava?"

"No," I growled. "Somewhere else. Somewhere that uses organic and natural products."

"I'll find somewhere suitable," she promised, jotting it down. "Is there anything else?"

"Yes. There will be a series of appointments coming up. Miss Steele will let you know when they are. They are an absolute priority and are not to be missed or double booked for any reason without my express permission."

"Appointments?"

"With Miss Steele and Dr. Greene at Escala." She was good. Other than a flash of understanding in her eyes, there was no reaction. "Also, I wanted to remind you that if Ana calls or drops by I'm to be interrupted, no matter what I am doing."

"Of course, sir." A smile was lurking at the edges of her lips. She knew what was going on.

"Alright. Go on and say it," I said flushing a bit.