Free Pieces of You by Mary Campisi

.”
    “And?”
    “Choices will be made.”
    “That’s it? The past will meet the present and choices will be made? What the heck is that supposed to mean?”
    Sylvia snapped the paper closed and said, “You can’t always go by what this paper says. I think they distort the message sometimes. I’ve found the Tribune does a better job of it.” Her words fell out in a jumble as she folded the paper in thirds and stuffed it in her tote bag.
    “Sylvia?”
    “It’s a hobby, Annie, you know how I am.” Her face flushed pink, spreading to the patch of flesh above her ample cleavage. “Sometimes, I make more out of it than there is.”
    “Do I have to go down to the corner and buy another paper, or are you going to tell me what it says?”
    Sylvia blurted out, “Secrets will be revealed. Beware.”
    “Secrets will be revealed.” It sounded like a script from a B movie. Annie wanted to laugh but the crushing tone of Sylvia’s voice stopped her.
    “Yes. And beware. I told you not to pay mind to it.”
    “Oh, Sylvia, you’re a gem.” Annie hugged her. “Thanks for warning me.”
    “It’s not . . . I mean . . . don’t worry over it, okay?”
    Annie’s lips twitched. “I’ll try not to.”
    “And please, don’t say anything to Quinn. He thinks I get too caught up in it.”
    “Your secret is safe. Now, go ahead on. I’ll lock the door behind you.”
    Sylvia hefted her purse over her shoulder and grabbed her tote bag. “Call me tomorrow and give me the good news.”
    “I will.”
    “And . . . forget about the other.”
    “I’ve already forgotten it.”
    The door clicked shut behind her and Annie locked it and then headed to her brother’s office. “Hi.”
    Quinn glanced up and frowned. “What are you doing here?”
     “Wow, what a reception.” She pushed open the door and stepped inside. “I just fought rush hour traffic in my Malibu, which I’ll remind you has never seen 62 mph, and all I get is a ‘what are you doing here?’”
     Quinn slid back his chair and made his way to her. He gave her a quick hug and peck on the cheek. “I’m sorry. I’m preparing for a really big meeting and you caught me in the middle of it.”
    “Oh. Sorry.”
    “It’s okay.” He glanced at his watch. “Look, do you want to catch a bite later, say sevenish? The Stuffed Flounder? ”
    “Sounds great. My treat.”
    “Fine.” Then, “Really? What’d Michael do, make a breakthrough discovery or did you win the lottery?”
    She laughed and clutched his arm. “I sold a painting.”
    “Congratulations!”
    “Ten thousand dollars! Can you believe it?”
    “Wow, not a bad piece of change.”
    “So, I thought we’d celebrate tonight.”
    Quinn was back at his desk, rifling through papers.
    “You, me, Michael, maybe Arianna’s friend, Danielle.” Danielle was a widow according to Arianna. And Quinn absolutely knew that.
    “Uh, whatever, that’s fine.”
    “Are you trying to get rid of me?”
    “I’m sorry, Annie. It’s just bad timing.”
    “I get the message. I’m out of here. Next time, I guess I’ll just call.”
    He tossed a file aside and said, “Come here.” He pulled her to him and kissed her forehead. “I’m very proud of you.”
    This was the brother who supported her, who always made time for her. “Thanks.” She inched out of his embrace. Now she could leave. “I’ll make the reservations for 7:00 p.m. We’ll meet you there.”
    “Okay.”
    “I’ll call Danielle and see if she’s free.”
    “Danielle?”
    He hadn’t heard a word she’d said. “I’ll call you with the details.” She waved a hand in the air. “Later.” 
    “I’ll walk you to the door.”
    “I know my way out. Relax. It’s not like this is your first case.” Michael would be her next phone call, and then Danielle. Given the right situation and a little help, maybe something could start up between Quinn and Danielle.
    Quinn unlocked the door. “We’ll celebrate tonight.”
    “Damn right we