Free Package Deal by Chris Chegri

by the way.”
    “Thanks.” She grinned, surprised at how much his compliment pleased her. “I didn’t know until about three hours ago. My boss asked, well, ordered me to cover the presentation at the last minute, after he realized the writer who usually covers the space station had taken vacation. I tried to say no, but that didn’t go over well.”
    Steve chuckled, dimples forming on either side of his mouth. “Can’t get a break, can you, Pearson? But, it’s my good luck.”
    She grinned. He was hard to resist, and she’d given up trying three seconds earlier.
    “I think you’ll find he’s a bear to work for.”
    Kelly’s eyebrows shot up in surprise. “Ted Willis?”
    “Yeah?”
    “You know him?”
    Steve leaned back on the edge of his desk, pulling her against him. “Sure, I know Willis. He’s been around Daytona forever and with the newspaper for most his life. He’s not a bad guy, just no manners. I wouldn’t let his gruff exterior scare you.”
    “Easier said than done.” Her nerves danced, being so close to him. “When I asked if he could find someone else, he threatened my job. I couldn’t believe it. Jeez, I’ve got so much to get done before I leave on Friday.”
    “Intimidation is Willis’ calling card. He threatens everyone with their job. Don’t worry about it. He’s full of hot air. You’ll be fine, and you’ll get used to his bluff.”
    “Thanks. That makes me feel a lot better. I’m glad I bumped into you.”
    “You didn’t bump into me.” He smiled mischievously. “Not yet, anyway. You were hiding from me. If you want to play hide and seek…”
    There was no mistaking his insinuation. His grin and glistening green eyes gave him away. She looked away, her mind spinning with possibilities. Her thoughts slipped back to their physical collision on the bridge and the rush of pleasure she had experienced while her body pressed against his. No. Kelly didn’t need any help fantasizing about Steve McCarthy, and the mere mention of bumping bodies sent a flurry of goose bumps shimmying along her limbs.
    “Are you hitting on me, Mr. McCarthy?”
    His grin widened. “Do you want me to?”
    She laughed out loud. “Never answer a question with a question.”
    “Okay, I plead the fifth.” His tone was playful, non-threatening. “I would like to take you to dinner tonight. What do you say?”
    “Sure, if we go Dutch treat.” She wasn’t ready for a full-fledged date yet, despite the warm, silky sensations running up and down her limbs.
    “Deal.” He brushed one hand against her cheek. “I’ll pick you up at seven. Bring your wallet.”

Chapter Ten

     

     
    B uilt over the water atop a weathered pier, Mackey’s Seafood Grill delighted Kelly. Just beyond a wall of windows, the Atlantic Ocean stretched north and south, offering a breathtaking view, while the surf buffeted the tall pilings beneath the floor. A bit rustic, with lots of wood and seafaring antiquities, the restaurant abounded with ambiance.
    The perky young hostess sported a white tuxedo shirt with bow tie and a shin length black skirt. Crisp, white tablecloths and sparkling wineglasses adorned each table. Outside on the veranda, sitting high upon an elaborate perch, a large blue and gold macaw ruled one corner, surveying all below and squawking hearty hellos , good-byes and a few key phrases at the diners. The fish is good. Watch out for the bones .
    Their young waiter, also dressed in tuxedo attire, lit the candle in the center of the table. “Good evening, folks. I’m Gerald.” He handed Kelly and Steve menus. “If you have any questions, I’ll be glad to answer them.”
    Kelly pointed at the macaw. “How do you keep the bird from flying away?”
    The waiter pushed his surfer bangs from his eyes. “His wings are clipped, or he’d be halfway to South America by now. Would you like to order a drink or an appetizer?”
    “A glass of Riesling for the lady and a Miller Light for me,” Steve told