Free Among The Cloud Dwellers (Entrainment Series) by Giuliana Sica Page B

ring. I tried to imagine him on the other end, wondered what he was wearing, who he had thought could be calling him . . .
    He answered, catching me by surprise, and just hearing his simple hello made my heart jump.
    “Hello, Mr. Miller, my name is Porzia Amard. You don’t know me, but I heard all about your extensive antidote collection, and I was wondering if you had anything that would cure acute light-drinker syndrome?” I used my most scholarly tone. I should have pinched my nose. Oh well, too late.
    “Hey, I’ve been thinking about you.”
    “Have you now?” I warmed from the inside out. I kicked my boots off and sat on the bed, folding my legs crosswise. With my free hand I pulled my hair out of the constricting bun and combed it out as if he could see me. I thought of Japanese people who bow on the phone as if the person they’re talking to could actually see them.
    “Of course I have. How’s everything going up there?” he asked.
    “Great. I’ve slept, I’ve been fed, and I’ve tried the new wine. It’s excellent.”
    “That’s why you need the antidote?” His laughter spilled out of the receiver.
    “Yes,” I laughed. “I also wanted to know if you and Clark would be interested in coming up tomorrow around six for the presentation.”
    “I don’t know about tearing Clark away from his card-writing business, but if you tell me there’s forage involved, I’m sure he won’t mind.”
    “Great. It’s not formal, so no tuxedo or anything. I’m sure whatever you both wear will make you the most handsome men of the evening.”
    “Oh . . . adulation,” he said, suspiciously. “Do you need something?”
    Wow! If he wasn’t quick. “Well, as a matter of fact, I do.”
    “And—?”
    “A bottle of Scotch,” I blurted, retracting my head turtle-style between my shoulders.
    “Porzia, what in the world? Is this in case the wine sucks?” he asked in disbelief.
    My head snapped back up in surprise. “You know, for an Australian, you speak pretty good American slang,” I remarked.
    “Don’t try to change the subject.”
    “OK, I need the Scotch to pay a bet I lost with the photographer.”
    “If I get you the Scotch, will you tell me what sort of bet you’re talking about here?”
    “I guess it would be only fair,” I agreed. “Ok, you have a deal.”
    “What do I get if I bring the antidote to your acute light-drinker syndrome?”
    “Oh, I don’t know. What would you like?” I held my breath.
    “How about you spend the next evening with me?” A pause; was he holding his breath? “If you’re free, that is,” he added.
    “Well, that’s easy. I’d love to spend time with you, antidote or not.” I smiled.
    “Great. I’ve just wasted a perfect chance to take advantage of you.”
    “Perhaps the gods will be generous and will grant you plenty more,” I laughed.
    “It’s great to hear you laugh, Porzia,” he whispered. “I believe I’m the one who needs an antidote here,” he said. “I can’t stop thinking about you. About how close you are to me, and yet I have to wait until tomorrow to see you again.”
    “Thank you.” I stretched my legs, leaned against the pillows, and wiggled my toes inside the warm socks.
    “Well then, I will pass on your invitation to Clark, and I’ll see you tomorrow evening.”
    “Sounds wonderful. Thank you, Gabe.”
    “No worries. I wish you goodnight, Porzia.”
    “Same to you. Bye—”
    “Goodnight.”
    I sat on the bed for a few precious moments, savoring his voice and the pleasant feeling stirring in my heart. I smiled, absently combing through my nearly dry hair. I wanted to change for dinner but realized I was running late already. I pulled my boots back up and walked to the bathroom where I freshened up with cold water. I made a face or two at myself in the mirror. All things considered, and no makeup time, I was holding up quite well. Finally, I rushed downstairs taking the steps two at a time again and collided with Desmond