Free Questing (Cosmis Connections, Book One) by Barbara Huffert Page A

What’s your topic tonight?”
    “Don’t humor me now, boy. I’m calling for some help.”
    “What’s wrong?”
    “Nothing. Settle down. I just need a ride tomorrow.”
    “Say that first next time. You had me scared.”
    “What’s with you? You seem testy.”
    “Sorry, ma’am. I didn’t mean to be short with you.” He took a deep breath. “How can I help?”
    “I have to get my car inspected tomorrow. I’m to drop it off before lunch. I don’t feel like waiting around there so I thought, if you could spare the time, you could pick me up and drive me to the Villa to visit my sister-in-law. Her hip is almost mended but I should see her again while she’s there. I can always take a cab if you have plans.”
    “No, no, I’d be glad to,” he answered automatically. He knew Kiley still visited there. He’d heard her talking about it with Dee. It must be someone she met while her mom was there so at least their conversation earlier had explained that mystery. What chance was there that they’d run into each other? Kiley’s friend had to be a permanent resident. Sadie’s sister-in-law would be in the short-term rehab area. Surely they had to be in separate locations.
    “Are you sure? You don’t sound sincere,” Sadie stated bluntly.
    “I’m sure, Miss Sadie. I made a bit of a fool of myself with Kiley earlier and…”
    “At lunch? And you’re still moping?”
    “No, she called me tonight.”
    “Things are looking up.”
    “I wouldn’t say that.”
    “Why? What did you say, Jordan?” When he hesitated, she used her most determined tone. “I’m waiting.”
    Jordan sighed, deciding how much to tell her. Finally, he said that they had been having a good conversation up until she caught him off guard with an unexpected question. When he explained that he answered it very impulsively, he heard her snort.
    “Harrumph. Put your foot in it good, did you, boy? Did you mean whatever it was that you said?” He had left out the details but Sadie was reading between the lines.
    “Absolutely, with all my heart.”
    “Then what are you worried about?”
    “It was too soon for my comments. I probably just scared Kiley off for good.”
    “That’s nonsense! It’s more likely that you just surprised her. If she’s as good a girl as you say she is she’ll come around. Of course, it would be easier to reassure you if I had specifics.”
    “I told you I’m a fool and that’s enough for now.”
    “Fine. Stop being ridiculous. From what Brett says, I’d say it’s safe to bet that this Kiley girl is plenty interested in you too. So what if you came on a bit strong? It’ll work out.”
    “Ah then you did accept a date with the playboy tonight.”
    “Yes and I’ll thank you not to repeat my comments to him in the future.”
    “Why not? I’ve heard you call him both a gigolo and a playboy in person.”
    “It’s not the same, coming from you,” she continued to discuss little tidbits with him until Jordan sounded more like himself. Then she reminded him what time to meet her at the garage and wished him a good night.

Chapter Six
     
    “I won’t hear of it, Jordan McKade.” Sadie was annoyed. “If you insist on sitting in this car instead of coming in then I will too. There’s a perfectly good lounge where you can wait.”
    “I’m fine here, really,” Jordan tried again. When she continued to glare silently at him, he finally accepted defeat and got out of the car.
    “It’s about time.” She took his arm as they walked toward the door. “You’re acting like a petulant child and frankly, it doesn’t suit you.”
    Jordan apologized and brushed a kiss on her cheek. “Forgive me? I’m in new territory here and it’s a little unsettling.”
    “Hmm, interesting.” She stopped to stare at him. “It may be that you’re even more endearing and adorable when you’re being humble and vulnerable than you are when you’re charming and confident.”
    Jordan had to grin. “And you, Sadie