Page 37 of Perfection

“But…but do you think we have time?”

He stared at her. “Nowyou’re going to worry about the hour?”

She straightened. “I’ve been keeping track.”

“Then we don’t have a problem.” He strode toward a door labeled Office. The sunflower swayed with each step he took.

Her shopping bag brushed against her leg as she ran to keep up. Was he assuring her that he’d get her home in time to change and see the Gastions before the awards ceremony or simply relaying that it wasn’thisdilemma?

He knocked on the office door, tried the doorknob, and entered when it proved to be unlocked.

His boldness caused a procession of worry-bugs to march along her neck. He didn’t wait around, did he?

She made a mental note to make sure she stayed on his good side.

As soon as the door was open, an automated message sounded. “Please return tomorrow morning after ten o’clock, and the manager will be glad to assist you at that time.”

She glanced from what she could see of the empty room to his face, where a jaw muscle worked furiously. Not a good sign.

“Management has left early and left the fucking machines in charge,” he grumbled. He looked annoyed enough to hurl her precious plant at the computer.

“Do you want me to take that?”

His thick brows lowered. Apparently, he didn’t know what she was talking about. But then he came back from whatever dark planet he had been visiting, and his mood shifted before her eyes.

As if reading her worry, he let go of the pot. She inhaled sharply, but he’d already caught the pot. He grinned.

He was playing her!

And he was damn good at it, too.

“Not nice.” She wanted to punch his arm but didn’t dare.

His brown eyes flickered, warm and inviting. She caught her lip between her teeth and held her breath.

He shut the door. “Let’s go. I’ll call on them tomorrow.”

* * *

Twenty minutes later, York stood in Kindra’s living room and stared at her with confusion. The contradiction between scientist and mother was astonishing as Kindra scooped Brianna into her arms and embraced the child. She had insisted they dash into the mall along the way to purchase a flower and then a doll for her daughter. York grinned at the thought of the number plants she’d rejected before spotting the right one. Now he understood.

Brianna’s face glowed. “You remembered!”

“Of course I did.” The little girl squirmed, and Kindra set her down.

Brianna smiled up at him, her blue eyes bright. “Did you notice it looks exactly like the picture?”

For an instant, he didn’t follow, but then she placed the live plant on the table next to a gel book with the holographic plant. “You’re right. It’s a perfect match.”

“Brianna, this is Lieutenant Richmond.”

“Pleased to meet you,” the girl said. But she wasn’t really interested in him and turned quickly back to her mother. She grabbed Kindra’s hand and tugged her down to toddler level, then rested her tiny hand on her mother’s cheek, commanding her full attention. “Now you have a real flower for May Day. Even if it is a bit late.”

“Yes, what a great idea you had. Thank you.” Kindra’s eyes shone.

York shoved his hands into his pockets, feeling like an intruder. It had been a long time since his family had shared such a poignant moment. He was whipped back to the special hologram birthday card Danny made him for his thirty-fourth birthday. The memory hurt.

Kindra glanced his way, her gaze settling on the black and red satchel she’d brought from Seville. He saw the wave of concern and regret cross her face and realized she was scared. “Listen, honey.” She rubbed Brianna’s back. “I need you to help me out with one of my tests. Can you do that?”