Erin stood at the window to her office and looked down on the city of Chicago. Her palms were set against the windowsill, her shoulders hunched as though awaiting a blow from some unknown assailant.

It was almost three o’clock and time for her to keep her word to Carson about leaving work before dark. In the winter sunset usually came by four-thirty and for some reason it was important to keep the promise she had made. Maybe because it had been so long since she had allowed someone into her personal circle, Erin considered.

Carson, she thought. What is it about her that gets to me so effectively?

Only this morning the woman was puttering around in her kitchen dressed in nothing but a long t-shirt and underwear. Erin felt a shiver of residual heat truce up her spine, just as her eyes had traced up those long, lean legs and she had wondered at the hidden treasures concealed beneath.

She had wanted Carson then with an intensity that frightened her and threatened to upset the balance of her carefully constructed world. Later, when Erin came out of the shower she was disappointed to find Carson already gone and the borrowed shirt folded neatly on the guest bed.

What had Erin expected, for Carson to wait around with a kiss before she sent Erin to work with wishes for a good day?

No, Erin thought, but not this aching loneliness either.

On the heels of that perceived loss Erin had remembered the scene she would probably walk in on at work and was overwhelmed by a sudden trapped feeling. It was that feeling that made her opt to drive her car instead of call a cab. At least if she absolutely had to get out of the building she would have an escape.

If Erin thought driving the car would help she had been wrong. All of the crime scene tape she found when she walked into the main lobby and what she knew lay behind it almost made her call Carson for support. And that was also exactly the reason she didn’t do it. She couldn’t allow herself to need someone…anyone…this much.

At least it was quiet now. The complete opposite of what it was when she first walked into the office. It seemed everyone in the building heard what happened on Friday and bombarded her with questions on sight.

After Erin answered their questions just enough to get them to leave her alone, things settled down a little until the nine-thirty meeting with her partners. Then she was hit with the same questions all over again until she finally pleaded a headache, very much real, and left Bob and Ray sitting with their mouths open while she retreated into her office.

People finally left her alone about those horrific events and after a half hour Erin went downstairs for a cup of decent coffee. Only two elevators worked so she had to wait a few minutes, but the delay was well worth it when she saw Carson in the lobby. Just the sight of her took Erin’s breath away. She should have left unseen then, gone back to her office like nothing ever happened. Instead Erin broke her cardinal rule for mixing business with pleasure.

She still managed to keep things brief and only offered Carson her coffee with the lame excuse that she looked like she needed it more. Confusion swam in Carson’s blue eyes at the distance Erin imposed between them, but it was the best she could do at work.

"Ms. Donovan?"

Erin started in surprise and knocked the coffee cup next to her off the windowsill. Cold coffee splashed over the carpet, but fortunately the cup was Styrofoam.

"Cathy! You scared me to death!"

"I’m sorry, Ms. Donovan. I buzzed you and knocked on the door. When you didn’t answer I got worried."

Erin ran a nervous hand through her auburn hair and swallowed the irrational fear. "It’s all right. I guess I’m still a little jumpy. What did you need?"

"Perfectly understandable," Cathy reassured her boss sympathetically. "I just wanted to let you know Mr. Jameson is on line one."

"Thanks, Cathy. I’ll take it, but after that please hold any other calls. I’m leaving early today."

A slightly surprised look flitted across the other woman’s face, but she wisely didn’t say anything about the change in her workaholic employer’s routine. "After you leave I’ll have maintenance up to look at that spot."

Erin nodded and picked up the phone as her secretary closed the door.

Twenty minutes later she hung up from another satisfied client after she reassured him his ex-wife didn’t seem to have much of a case for usurping half his business enterprises. Then Erin put on her suit jacket and draped her overcoat over her arm before she walked out to the receptionist area. Cathy sat dutifully behind her desk trying very hard to look busy. It was difficult since the phone didn’t ring and the schedule was fairly non-existent during the holiday week. All that the young woman managed to do was look a little bored.

"You never did tell me how the Christmas party went with Scott’s family."

Cathy smiled and her thick lipstick shone wetly in the fluorescent lights. "Same as usual. Scott’s father ignored me while his mother made some vague reference to the grandchildren she still doesn’t have. Michael had a stomach bug and gave it to everyone, so I spent all weekend throwing up and sleeping. Just the normal holiday with the in-laws."

"Ah," Erin said sympathetically. "You’re a more patient woman than I am. Listen, there’s not much going on and you’ve been sick all weekend. Why don’t you go home early today? I know I am."

The blonde looked relieved. "Oh, thank you. That would be wonderful. I’m still feeling a little weak."

Erin smiled and said, "Go ahead and switch over to the answering service. Maintenance can look at that stain later."

By the time the attorney reached the door Cathy had already punched in the code to transfer any incoming calls and was collecting her belongings. Erin didn’t have anything pressing at home and she felt slightly at a loss. What would she possibly do, watch movies?

Maybe Carson would like to join her for a drink somewhere. She should still be on the tenth floor moving in equipment so Erin thought she would casually swing by and invite her. The most Carson could do was say no.

Seconds later Erin stepped off the elevator and into the mother of all chaos. Equipment filled the hall and electrical cords were strung everywhere. She could see the lower half of a man’s legs where he stood on a tall ladder, his torso concealed above the drop-down ceiling.

Two men down at the far end of the hall were wrestling a large set of shelves into the room Carson called the computer lab. Someone bumped into her from behind and she almost fell over.

"Oops, sorry about that."

A strong hand steadied her and Erin turned around to see a familiar face. "You’re Laura, aren’t you? I met you downstairs with Carson earlier."

"That’s right." Laura beamed at her with a huge, friendly smile. "Sorry about the mess. The electrician is running wires for all of the equipment and it’s a real zoo around here."

"So I see. How long is it going to take to get it all straightened out?"

"Well, let’s see. We have to run lines for servers, extensions, monitors, towers…Oh, maybe by this time next week everything will be in place."

Laura’s friendly open manner appealed to Erin. She could understand why Carson thought so highly of her. She also knew that if Carson hadn’t introduced them it was unlikely she would have gotten even that much information out of Laura. By Carson’s account Laura was no slacker in the mental arena and security for Delphi Technologies would be necessarily tight.

"Sounds like you’re all going to be here for a while tonight," Erin observed, slightly disappointed. If they were that busy Carson probably wouldn’t be able to get away.

"Oh no. Most of the equipment has already been moved in and with the lines being run through the ceiling it’ll be easy enough to lock up."

Laura glanced down at her watch. "In fact I have an appointment and I’m going to have to get out of here in the next ten minutes. Well, I better go. If you’re looking for Carson she’s in her office." Laura waved and walked away.

Apparently Erin wasn’t interrupting after all. But just because she had promised to leave work early didn’t mean that Carson would. The other woman was just as much of a workhorse as she was.

Erin grinned. She would just have to charm her into it.

Determined, she walked toward Carson’s office. The door was cracked open and she leaned around the door to peek inside.

Carson’s office was in just as much chaos as the hallway. Empty cardboard boxes, cords and equipment were strewn everywhere. Heavy mahogany shelves lined the wall behind the desk and two new comfortable looking leather chairs had been brought in. One of the chairs was behind the desk and the other had been placed in front for visiting clients.

The computer executive held a hammer and was pounding a nail into the wall.

I didn’t know she was left-handed. For some reason that fact seemed to make Carson even sexier.

Erin could see several framed diplomas leaning against the wall. Carson wore jeans and a flannel shirt and her blonde hair had been pulled back into a once-tidy ponytail.

Erin waited until the hammering stopped and then tapped lightly on the door with one knuckle. She grinned when Carson’s head whipped around and their eyes met.

Carson lowered the hammer to her side and returned Erin’s smile. "Come on in. What time is it?"

"Almost four."

Erin walked into the room and stepped carefully over the myriad debris. "In fact, I was just on my way out since my day pass has expired."

They both smiled at the small joke and Carson flushed a little. Erin wondered if she was embarrassed for eliciting the promise from her to leave early. Maybe Carson felt she was a little presumptuous, but Erin was warmed that someone would care enough to extract that agreement.

"I’m glad to hear it. I was afraid that you would try to break curfew."

"Not this time, but I don’t know for how long I can force myself to leave early. You’re just lucky this is Christmas week and there’s nothing to do anyway."

Erin stepped around some of the clutter, and in front of the leather chair. She indicated Carson’s diplomas with a nod. "Do you need some help there?"

"No, it can wait. I’m just trying to get settled into my new office. This is a far cry from a warehouse office where the only window looks out over a concrete bay."

"I can imagine." Erin grinned and looked around. "But it’s going to look very nice. I like that desk."

Carson glanced over at the heavy piece and said, "The credit for that goes to Ray. All of the offices already had them."

Erin’s eyebrows lifted to her hairline. "He must be very impressed with you. I’ve never known him to give expensive furniture to any other client."

"Really, then I’ll try not to let him down." Carson laid the hammer on the desk, careful not to scar the wood. "Did you stop by just to let me know you were leaving?"

"Actually, I had an ulterior motive."

Carson stood only a few steps away and the light blue eyes captivated Erin. Carson quirked one eyebrow curiously and her lips curved into a small smile. Erin could see the tiny lines in the full lips and unconsciously licked her suddenly dry lips. For a moment it was difficult to look away, until Erin reminded herself that she was still at work and pulled her professional mantle back together.

"Oh?" Carson prompted softly.

Why was this so difficult, Erin wondered? Granted it had been a while, but surely she could ask a friend to have a drink with her.

Maybe because I want her to be more than a friend, an inner voice presented.

Erin ignored the tiny voice. "Um, I was wondering if I could persuade you to leave early and join me for a drink."

"Hmm, let me think," Carson said playfully. "Stay here and hang dull documents on the wall or share a pleasant drink with an intelligent and attractive lady? I think I’ll take the drink."

Carson took a step toward Erin and because she wasn’t looking where she was going, stepped right into an empty cardboard box. Her foot wedged in the bottom and her other leg tripped over the open flaps. Carson stumbled forward and Erin who was only a few steps in front of her tried to step back out of the way. That turned out to be a fatal error when she staggered over a pile of books and started to fall backward.

Erin landed sprawled in the leather chair with Carson headed right for her. Carson tried to stop her fall and grabbed for the arms of the chair. Her breath came out with a whoosh when her stomach hit the leather-covered arm, and ghosted across Erin’s mouth.

Inches separated them and their eyes locked. They were so close Erin could see the blue eyes dilate and darken with…need? She felt an answering surge in the pit of her stomach and her lips parted with her panting breath.

It had been six long years, but she still remembered what desire looked like. Carson’s eyes drifted lower on her face and settled on Erin’s lips. Erin was aware of the blood hammering in her veins and looked again at Carson’s mouth.

Was it as soft as it looked?

She watched spellbound as Carson’s eyes fluttered half-closed and her sweet breath whispered softly into Erin’s own mouth.

She was so close Erin could feel the heat from her body and a deep inhalation would bring them in contact. Erin thought Carson would kiss her and she wanted it. Instinctively she leaned closer, slowly drawn toward the softness. Then Carson closed her eyes and pushed back from the chair.

"That was really clumsy of me. Sorry about that." Carson bent down to extricate herself from the box. Her voice was huskier than usual and she wouldn’t look at Erin, for which the attorney was immeasurably grateful. Maybe that drink wasn’t such a good idea.

"It’s all right." Erin stood up quickly. "With all this clutter it’s a wonder you didn’t break your leg." She meant to make the comment to be humorous, to try and lighten the mood. Instead it came out a little harsh and Carson looked at her with a wounded expression. "Well, I guess I should go."

Erin stood and headed for the door, intent on a fast get away to somewhere that she could get her emotions under control.

"What about that drink?"

The soft question stopped her before she reached the door and Erin turned back to Carson. Pinned in place by the blue-eyed gaze Erin felt her stomach flip-flop helplessly. Painfully aware of the questioning, slightly hurt gaze Erin felt like an absolute heel. It wasn’t Carson’s fault Erin was over-reacting, but if Carson hadn’t pulled away Erin knew she would have kissed her.

Erin wanted to feel justified for running out the door by claiming that she had worked too hard to allow an office indiscretion to ruin her reputation, but it didn’t work. Carson wasn’t her employee and there would be nothing wrong with getting involved with her. But even if Erin refused to allow anything to happen at work it was fairly clear that Carson felt something, too.

Erin took a deep breath and looked at her again. Carson could have just about anyone she wanted, man or woman, and Erin knew that she wanted to be the one Carson chose.

She had grown to know Carson a little over the weekend and knew that she came from a harsh upbringing, was calm and determined. She was brave, compassionate and gentle. Erin was more than a little attracted to Carson’s strength of character, but it was more than that. Even now, Carson waited quietly to allow Erin to come to a decision without feeling pushed. It was exactly the right thing to do.

Carson had a dark smudge across one cheek and her flannel shirt hinted at the full curves beneath. Her hair was slightly mussed with some of the wisps sticking up and Erin thought her the most beautiful woman she had ever seen.

I’m falling for her.

Desire was one thing, but this was different. It was deep and intense and Erin didn’t want to fight it. She wouldn’t have an openly romantic relationship at work, but she didn’t think Carson was the type to carry on public displays of affection. Besides, Erin realized, she was getting a little ahead of herself. It was very possible that it had only been a momentary lapse on Carson’s part. There was no evidence to support the idea that she might want to get involved with her.

But she would never know if she didn’t take a chance. Erin tried to still the nervous shaking in her fingertips. "I’m game if you are."

She wasn’t sure if she was only talking about a drink.

Carson smiled. "It’s my turn to pick the place and I know just the right spot. It’s a little old-fashioned Irish pub downtown."

"Your car or mine?"

It seemed that now that she had acknowledged her attraction Erin couldn’t resist flirting. Carson didn’t seem to notice as she picked up her overcoat from where she had slung it across her chair and reached for her purse.

"How about yours? I’ve been dreaming of riding in it since you told me about it."

"You fantasize about my car?" Erin laughed.

"Oh yes," Carson answered softly in an odd tone and waited for Erin to walk out ahead of her. She pulled the door shut and then locked it.

She needed to clean up a little so Carson went into the bathroom to comb her hair and wash the smudge from her face. Freshening up was a bit of an excuse but Carson needed a few minutes for the shaking in her limbs to stop.

I can’t believe I almost kissed her. I can’t believe she almost let me! Then the light flirting that had followed was obvious enough that even Carson, as inexperienced as she was, caught on to it.

The only reason Carson turned away at the last moment was fear. She was afraid that Erin would be disappointed by her inept kisses. Erin was older and had been involved in romantic relationships while Carson had never been in the position to kiss anyone. Unsure and frightened she had pulled away.

Stupid, she berated herself silently as she scrubbed at the dark spot on her cheek. I should have just kissed her. We both wanted it, and if she wants me then she would put up with a little awkwardness. Something tells me I wouldn’t be inexperienced for long!

Carson smiled into the mirror. The image of Erin’s lips pressed against hers threatened to heat her blood again. She pushed the mental picture away and left the bathroom. She stepped into the hall and Erin’s gaze flickered and warmed when she saw Carson.

"Ready to go?"

Carson nodded and followed Erin to the parking garage. The 350Z was a beautiful car with leather and wood grain interior. Erin turned on the heated seats and allowed the heater to warm up for a minute before she shifted into gear and pulled out of the concrete structure.

"So, where’s this pub you like to go to?" Erin asked conversationally.

Carson flushed slightly. "I don’t go there a lot, but it’s a very quaint place called Grace O’Malley’s. Head downtown and I’ll direct you as we go."

Erin glanced over at Carson playfully, obviously enjoying herself. "Sounds mysterious."

Relieved that the attorney didn’t seem uncomfortable with her after what happened in her office Carson smiled back. "Not really, but it is a very small place. It’s a little dark and definitely not a place visited by upper society. I like it because to everyone else I am just another patron. No one even seems to notice me when I go there."

"Ah, anonymity. I understand completely. What about the name? I’ve heard of places called O’Malley’s but not Grace O’Malley."

"It’s named after a sixteenth century lady pirate," Carson informed her with a wink. "I think you’ll like it."

"It sounds very intriguing. I can’t wait."

Despite the initial awkward reaction the moment in Carson’s office seemed to have broken the ice between them in a critical way, and Erin was glad she stopped by with the invitation. The atmosphere in the car was warm, the air heavy with mutual chemistry. Erin kept her eyes on the road partly to follow Carson’s direction and partly because she knew that if she looked at Carson now she wouldn’t be able to look away.

Before long Carson directed her into a sharp left turn that Erin wouldn’t even have known was there if it hadn’t been pointed out. The bar was small, but well-kept and in a nice neighborhood. As was typical of most bars it was dark and smelled of ale, but the furnishings were clean and fresh. It was appropriately decorated for an Irish lady pirate with a seafaring motif throughout. Gaffs, rusty anchors and battered wooden oars adorned the walls.

Soft Celtic music played in the background.

Erin thought it was indeed quaint as Carson had warned her, but she adored it. Carson led her toward the back in the darkness and to a small circular table against the rear corner of the room. A solitary candle was lit on the table and cast a red hue over Carson’s light features.

"There aren’t many people here right now which I guess is normal for a Monday. But it gets very busy on the weekends."

Erin nodded and looked over a low wall situated just behind them toward the bar. A young woman drew beer on tap and laughed with the other patrons. It was a friendly and relaxed atmosphere that Erin enjoyed right away and even though the women basically sat in an open room the low wall behind lent a feeling of seclusion and intimacy.

A young woman stepped up to the table and happily took their order. She didn’t linger, but headed quickly to get their drinks.

"I can see why you like this place. It’s very homey. But tell me about this pirate it’s named after. I thought pirates considered it bad luck to have a woman on a ship. How’d she get away with it?"

Pleased that Erin was enjoying herself Carson answered. "It was, but interestingly Grace O’Malley wasn’t just on a ship. She was the captain."

Erin leaned forward on her elbows captivated by the story and a broad grin crossed Carson’s face before she continued with her story.

"It seems that Grace’s father was an Irish trader who sailed the seas. She kept pestering him to allow her to go with him on the ships, but he refused. One day she cut all her hair off, dressed in boy’s clothes and stowed away on the vessel. Her father was so astonished and impressed that he allowed her to accompany him from then on."

The waitress returned at that moment and deposited their drinks before leaving them alone again.

"And the pirate thing? What did she do to be considered a pirate?"

Carson shrugged. "Not so much really. Ireland was battling the English at that time on the seas and anyone who fought against the English was labeled pirates. She did engage in many battles with other pirates though and was considered quite the swordswoman."

"That’s a fascinating story," Erin said and sipped at her beer.

What was more interesting was the animated way Carson had recited it. Her eyes that were usually so cool and even sparkled with fire. Erin was hit by a wave of affection for her that eclipsed what she had felt earlier. It was so intense that for a moment she was tempted to lean across the table and act on the raw impulses that cascaded through her.

She watched full, red lips touch to the frosted glass and imagined what they would taste like. The flash of the pink tongue actually made her gasp.

"If you keep looking at me like that I will not be responsible for the consequences."

Erin flushed in embarrassment and looked quickly away. "I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable."

Soft fingers closed over her hand and drew Erin’s attention back across the table. Carson’s eyes were gentle and a small smile curved her full lips.

"I never said I was uncomfortable."

Carson had leaned over a little to stretch across the table. The position strained the neckline of her shirt and exposed a hint of her full cleavage. Erin blinked and suddenly had trouble swallowing. She forced her eyes back to Carson’s face, but she was looking at their hands. Erin glanced around and pulled away with a regretful look that led Carson to believe that Erin was self-conscious about holding hands in public.

"I wanted to do that with you at the RL."

"You did? I…I had no idea." Then Erin admitted, "So did I."

Both were quiet for a moment as they sipped at their drinks and simply enjoyed the company and the atmosphere. Even though lost in their own thoughts, their eyes wandered slowly over each other. The glance was almost physical and Erin could clearly feel the visual caress on her skin.

She wanted to see more of Carson away from work and wondered what the computer exec would enjoy doing. Did she like to ski or ice-skate? Or was she more of the indoor type?

"I really enjoyed the RL," Carson said, interrupting her thoughts. "Shellfish is one of my all time favorites and the wine was impeccable. Do you think we could go back there sometime?"

"I think that could be arranged," Erin answered softly. Apparently they were both thinking along the same lines. "What else do you like to do? I know you like sweet, white wine and Japanese art and intimate Irish pubs, but I’d like to know more. What kind of music do you like?"

She could see the question pleased Carson. She smiled before she answered. "I like all kinds of music from soft Jazz to light rock and even some of the old Big Band music. What I do not care for is hip-hop, rap acid or country."

"Too whiny. I like Jazz, too."

"What else do you enjoy? Do you like any sports?" Carson took a long sip of her ale while she waited for her companion to answer, riveted by what she was learning about her.

Erin considered the question while she sipped her drink. "Not on television. The only thing I watch on television is football and even that is occasional. As for sports I like to participate in, I like to snow ski and I’ve even been know to do some equestrian riding."

"That looks difficult with all those hedges," Carson said. "Aren’t you afraid that you’ll fall?"

Erin laughed and said, "Sometimes. People can get very competitive, but I really enjoy it. Do you ride?"

"Only western style. I considered having stables put in on my property but finally decided against it. I’m just not around enough to take care of horses."

"And horses do require a lot of work."

Carson nodded in agreement. "But I do like to snow ski. I also play racquetball, pool and I like to swim."

The idea of Carson’s beautiful body revealed in a swimsuit threatened to heat Erin up again and she drained the last of her ale.

"Would you like another?" Carson asked politely.

"Better not," Erin said regrettably. "It’s a school night." And I wouldn’t be able to control myself if I had much more.

Her own glass empty, Carson laid a bill on the table for the waitress and asked if Erin was ready to go. But this time in the car, Carson didn’t hesitate to reach over for Erin’s hand after the attorney shifted the car into drive.

Carson’s fingers were strong and warm in her hand and Erin held her gently almost afraid that she would break the spell between them. After a moment she released her hand since she didn’t want Carson to feel pressured.

Erin wanted to take Carson somewhere private so that she could kiss her goodnight and was disappointed that she couldn’t. Instead she would have to drive back to the Holcomb Building so Carson could retrieve her car.

Few cars remained in the underground structure and even though most people were gone for the day Erin couldn’t take the chance. She refused to be caught in a compromising position by anyone who could spread rumors at the workplace. Carson seemed to understand that and spared an understanding look as they sat parked next to her Lexus.

"I’ll see you tomorrow," Carson offered shyly and was pleased when Erin squeezed her fingers gently, then let go quickly.

"Yes," Erin said softly. "Tomorrow."

The word sounded like a promise of so much more and it was very hard for Carson to open the door and walk away. All she wanted to do was take Erin in her arms and kiss her for a very long time. Her own shyness and Erin’s professionalism prevented that, but Carson was content that it would happen eventually.

Chapter 10

The week rushed by for Carson and it was already Wednesday. She was so busy getting settled in that she barely saw Erin long enough to say hello. When she did it was only in passing, with long lingering looks passed between them and little else. Each time Erin had her customary cup of coffee and Carson had come to believe it was practically an extension of her body. Each of the looks they shared threatened to set her blood on fire, but Carson thought her reactions to Erin’s gaze were wishful thinking.

It was doubtful Erin would ever compromise her work ethics by casting passionate looks in her direction, even if Carson thought the attorney might be a little interested in her in a romantic way.

She had no experience to go by in these matters, but Carson’s instincts insisted there was something between them. Without anything said directly though, she was willing to concede that she might be reading more in to it than there was.

I am so attracted to her that I would likely imagine things if she caught my eye in a board of directors meeting!

At least Carson might be able to see Erin for a few minutes this afternoon. She had a meeting scheduled with her attorney, Ray Eldridge, about a new contract and if she was lucky Erin would be available.

Twenty minutes before she was due in Mr. Eldridge’s office Carson took the elevator to the sixth floor and walked into the receptionist’s area. The same secretary sat in front of Erin’s door that Carson remembered from the last time she had been there. Blonde, wavy hair was pulled back into an untidy bun and fuchsia fingernails clacked at a computer keyboard.

The young woman looked up when Carson came in and a guarded look immediately settled on her face. Well, she couldn’t really blame her after the last timed Carson had practically stalked in here.

"Cathy, is it?" Carson asked politely. The secretary looked a little surprised at the unexpected display of manners and nodded uncertainly. "Is Ms. Donovan busy at the moment?"

"Um, well, she’s not in any meetings or anything. Did you want to see her?"

"Yes, if it’s all right would you mind finding out if she can spare a little time?"

Carson felt uncomfortable exchanging pleasantries with the woman. She wasn’t much of a people person, but she tried to keep in mind that the young woman worked for Erin, and if Erin kept her around Cathy must be pretty good at her job. Erin Donovan wasn’t the sort to tolerate incompetence to any degree.

"Sure, Ms. Tierney. Let me find out if she’s free."

Cathy pushed the tiny intercom button on her desk and Carson could hear Erin’s voice over the speaker.

"Yes?"

"Ms. Donovan, Ms. Tierney is here to see you."

Despite the normal cool reserve that she pulled into place around her like a cloak, Carson smiled when she heard Erin’s delighted voice over the intercom system. "Show her in, please."

Cathy started to stand up, but Carson waved her away in a friendly gesture. "It’s all right. After the last time I shanghaied my way past you, I can get the door myself."

Again she saw she had surprised the secretary and was quite pleased with herself. See, Carson thought. I can do charming.

Erin was already half standing when Carson opened the door and looked around the edge. For a moment they simply exchanged smiles before Carson spoke. "I hope I’m not interrupting anything."

"Not at all. Coming to make sure I’m leaving work already? It’s a little early in the day isn’t it?"

Carson closed the door and stepped over to Erin’s desk enjoying the playful banter. The fact that Erin brought up her altered schedule let Carson know that she hadn’t forgotten about her promise and that she didn’t resent it.

"Actually, not this time. But I’m glad to see that you remembered it. I have an appointment to see Mr. Eldridge in a few minutes, but I wanted to see you first. I haven’t had a chance to talk with you much this week, what with moving in upstairs and all."

Erin’s eyes shaded to a lighter blue and her gaze softened. She indicated that Carson should sit in her visitor’s chair and she sat down also. "I’m glad you did. I was beginning to think you had forgot about me."

So she hadn’t been imaging things all week! Erin was doing more than merely acknowledging her presence when they met in the elevators and the halls.

"Absolutely not. I don’t think that’s possible."

What was it about Erin that made her want to flirt as soon as she saw her, Carson wondered?

"Good, I’d hate to be the only one preoccupied."

"You, preoccupied at work?" Carson teased. "I didn’t think that was possible."

Erin laughed and the sound sent shivers up Carson’s spine.

"Normally, I make it a rule never to be distracted at work and I absolutely draw the line at office affairs. But I have to admit that doesn’t stop my mind from wandering on occasion. After all, I am only human."

Affair? Was that what Erin wanted, an affair? Carson almost choked on the thought, but was saved when Erin continued on.

"How’s the move going? Are you getting settled in all right?"

"Oh, yes. In fact, now that you bring it up I wanted to give you something."

She handed Erin one of her new business cards and said, "I just got these back from the printer. They have the new office number as well as my direct line, my cell phone number and home phone."

Erin looked at the embossed card for a second. "I can’t imagine you giving these out to just anyone."

"No," Carson admitted a little shyly. "These are the special ones that are only handed out to a select few. The others only have the office number and the fax line."

From the look on Erin’s face when she said that Carson would have sworn that she had just given the attorney a precious gift. A thought suddenly occurred to her and Carson felt the blood start to drain from her head.

Oh no. Christmas is in less than a week! Am I supposed to get her something? Are we more than friends? ‘Girlfriends’ doesn’t sound like the right term, at least not yet, and I have no idea what she thinks about that idea. But she did just mention affairs and suggested that she was thinking along those lines in regards to us. Oh, what am I going to do?

Erin was asking something and Carson had to focus again with an effort. "So, you were going to tell me about the move."

"Right." Carson had a little trouble keeping up with the conversation because of all the distracting thoughts in her own head. "The electrician has finished running all the wires and all the equipment is in place. Now we just have to get all of the systems integrated and ready the mainframe to switch everything over next week. I just needed to see Mr. Eldridge to finalize some details on a new contract."

"Oh? Should I ask?"

Touched that Erin would ask if she was infringing on security Carson reassured her. "No, it’s fine. Delphi Technologies is just doing some security research with the Defense Department. The contract itself isn’t secret, but no doubt some of the details will be."

"That’s quite a coup, isn’t it? Doing research for the government?"

Erin was clearly impressed and Carson glanced down at the attorney’s desk as she fought not to turn scarlet with pleased embarrassment. An old inkwell and fountain pen took up one corner of Erin’s desk. From the scratches Carson could tell that it had seen better days.

She wondered about the significance of the ancient writing device, but answered the question put to her. "Well, who if not our own government would need security?"

"You’re very modest, but something tells me the Department of Defense would only go to the best and the brightest."

Finally Carson lost her composure and met Erin’s eye with a grin. "You are going to make me blush if you keep stroking my ego like that."

Erin laughed and threw up her hands in mock surrender. "Okay, okay, but you can’t blame me if I’m impressed."

Altogether too pleased Carson smiled and looked down at her watch. She only had a couple of minutes before she had to meet her attorney but she had to ask one final question.

"What is the significance of the inkwell?" She nodded to indicate the device.

It was Erin’s turn to look a little uncomfortable. "One piece of advice that my father gave me was never to forget that we all come from humble beginnings. Using the inkwell helps me feel grounded and I think it gives things a more personal touch for me to sign everything that crosses my desk with it."

Sometimes Carson thought she had Erin Donovan completely figured out and then at other times, like now, she realized what an enigma the other woman really was. But it was also moments like this that gave Carson an unexpected glimpse into the depths of Erin’s personality.

"You are a romantic."

A completely mischievous look crossed Erin’s face. "Guilty as charged, but don’t tell anyone. If my clients realized what a soft, jelly center I really have they would take total advantage of me."

Carson laughed and stood up. "Your secret is safe with me, but I better get going or I will be late."

"I’m glad you came by." Erin also stood up behind her desk. "I’ve wanted to drop by to see you, but I couldn’t think of a good excuse."

"You don’t need an excuse. I want to see you as well."

Carson was just as surprised by her admission as Erin apparently was and tried to pass it off by quickly saying, "I should go."

"I’ll see you at the Christmas party on Friday then?"

"I’ll be there. Call me if you need anything." Carson indicated the card in Erin’s hand and then walked out of the office.

Carson groaned internally and resisted the urge to thump her head against the wall. What must Erin think of her?

#

As soon as the door closed Erin sank to her chair and her forehead struck the desk with a muted thud. She could think of several things she needed from Carson and none of them had anything to do with work. The kiss that had never materialized on Monday evening was the first thing that came to mind, just as it had all week.

Erin could see it all in her mind, Carson as she emerged naked from the heated pool. The water as it cascaded from Carson’s body in a rain of light and steam in the cold, winter air. Her nipples would be hard, aching and begging to be touched.

Erin swallowed thickly and stood up. The office was no place for these kinds of thoughts and she needed to get Carson out of her head for the time being. There was too much work to do to allow these fantasies here.

This year it was her firm’s turn to plan the annual Christmas party and there was still a lot to do before Friday. Especially since her partners had summarily decided that, as a woman, she would naturally be better at planning such things. Erin was aware that it was only an excuse, but she didn’t really blame them.

Nevertheless, she still had to finalize the arrangements with the caterer, see that the decorations were brought in and set up on time and a host of other things she would likely forget about until the last minute. In addition, there was the minor inconvenience of even attempting to practice corporate law.

Coffee, Erin decided. The Starbucks kiosk had a mocha frappacino with her name on it. I will not think about Carson Tierney’s very sexy body or how her skin would look underneath mine…No!

Coffee, coffee…

With that mantra firmly repeated, Erin took the elevator to the lobby. She was so distracted by how Carson had managed to become such a large figure in her life that she almost didn’t notice the slight crowd of the ever-present working class.

The doors opened on the main floor and Erin stepped off, automatically destined for the coffee corner in the front of the building. She noticed a dark figure from the corner of her eye that struck an instinctive cord of fear in her psyche and without thought her eyes snapped to the left.

There! Down the corridor to the security offices that were still cordoned off with yellow tape was a dark shadow that Erin could just make out. The figure was large with dark, busy hair and fear burned a bitter acid taste in her mouth. Erin shrank back against the wall no longer concerned with mundane thoughts of caffeine or love.

People continued to move past her, on and off the lift. Some even took a moment out of their busy lives to spare a curious glance to a woman who seemed to have temporarily forgotten her destination before they moved on.

Then the man turned to the left as he reached the end of the hall and his profile was illuminated. It was only Bill Turner, Holcomb’s chief of security.

Erin took a long, shuddering breath and then another. Adrenaline caused her limbs to shake and she felt like a fool.

No doubt Bill was completing his investigation before he reopened main security. Maintenance would have to replace the fire axe since the other had been confiscated for evidence and the shattered containment box would have to be repaired. Of course he would be here!

As foolish as she felt, the incident had reminded Erin of something vital. With the excitement of a possible relationship with Carson, she had forgotten about the murderer and more importantly, that something about him was familiar.

Starbucks forgotten, Erin was more determined than ever to figure out who he was. Her subconscious insisted she knew something vital. Otherwise she wouldn’t have this nagging sensation in her gut, and Erin never ignored her instincts. They had come to her aid more than once and she didn’t intend to ignore them now.

Erin hadn’t heard from Detective Hutchins and could only assume that the police hadn’t learned anything more. She pushed away from the wall and walked back toward the elevator.

It was time to do some of old-fashioned investigating.