The Mating(44)
Murmuring polite thanks, Elise glanced over Marla’s shoulder to see Kane leaning against the doorframe of his office. He still had an overall aura of stress, but at that moment he was beaming approval her way and she felt a warm glow within at having been the cause of his happiness. Giving her a wink and a nod, he disappeared back into his work space.
Leading the way into the living room that was across from the office, Elise tried to make some small talk. “So, do you always have Sundays off or is this a special occasion?”
“I only work part-time at the gallery and my hours are pretty flexible. Most clients are quite wealthy and have very discerning taste. They call me when they want something in particular and if Bastian’s Gallery doesn’t have what they need, I go looking for it. It gives me a chance to do some travelling, and I get to write it all off as a business expense.”
“It sounds like nice work, if you can get it.”
“I’ve found that if you want something badly enough in this world, you have to make the circumstances work for you.” Marla shrugged delicately as she looked around the room. “You haven’t made any changes yet, I see. If this were my house, I’d waste no time in starting to redecorate. This ‘old homestead’ decor is so outdated. When you’re ready, let me know and I’ll help you transform this place into something suitable for the current century.”
“I’ll keep that in mind.” Elise smiled, but seethed inwardly. She’d just arrived, for heaven’s sake. Redecorating was the last thing on her mind. Besides, while it wasn’t exactly up to date, the house wasn’t shabby; it was comfortable and homey. Helen had probably decorated it years ago and, while the older woman wasn’t technically lady of the house any more, Elise couldn’t imagine taking over and redoing everything. This had been Helen’s home for years, and Elise supposed it would continue to be for quite a while to come. As far as Elise was concerned, any changes that were made should be agreed upon jointly by her, Helen and Carrie. After all, they all shared the house.
Deciding to change the topic, Elise tried to sound perky and pleased at the woman’s presence. I’m doing this for Kane, she reminded herself. “Marla, Kane didn’t know when he invited you to lunch, that I’d already made plans with Julia, but you’re more than welcome to come along.”
“Well, I don’t know... Julia isn’t overly fond of me. Perhaps I should just stay here. I can help Kane in the office and keep him company while you’re gone.” Marla glanced across the hall towards the open office door. Kane could be seen bending over the lower drawer of the filing cabinet, his pants pulled taut, showing off his muscular thighs and tight rear end to their best advantage. Both women paused for a moment and admired the view.
Giving her head a shake and focusing on the conversation, Elise countered Marla’s suggestion. “Oh, Julia doesn’t mind at all. I’ve already explained the situation and she’s looking forward to seeing you.” Crossing her fingers behind her back, Elise made a mental note to buy Julia something really nice as soon as she had some money of her own. Julia had sympathized with her over the phone, telling her to bring Marla along so that they could share the misery.
Marla looked as if she’d continue to refuse, and Elise wasn’t sure how she felt about that. On the one hand, she really didn’t want to have lunch with Marla, but on the other hand, she didn’t want Marla spending time alone with Kane. Deciding that keeping the woman in sight was the better option, she pressed her case. “Kane knows about the planned lunch with Julia and even said how good it would be for you to come along, seeing as how you’re trying to expand your circle of female friends.”
Barring her teeth in an insincere smile, Marla finally acquiesced and they set out towards Julia’s house.
*****
Lunch at Julia’s wasn’t a complete disaster. All three women made an effort to get along and chatted about Thomas’ condition—it was rapidly improving—the state of the weather—unseasonably warm—and recent movies in the theatre. Julia had made a delicious quiche and tossed salad and when Marla complimented her on the meal, Julia offered to share the recipe. After clearing the table, Julia hesitantly mentioned her plans for the afternoon.
“I thought I’d give Elise a tour of the woods. We found out yesterday that we both like to go for a good run, and she hasn’t had a chance to explore yet. I know you’re not really that in touch with your wolf side, Marla. If you’d rather not—”