“BM’s flight cancelled. He’s rerouted,” she said as she put the pad away. “He’ll be a little late tonight.”

“I was worried for a minute.”

“Laurel’s right.You are a smart-ass.”

“Is that what she said?”

With a careless shrug, Parker tucked her BlackBerry away.

“Okay, okay, your torture methods are efficient and cruel. She changed the playing field so I’m trying to figure out if I should suit up. I’m not sure it’s a good idea, but ... well, it’s an idea. Comments?”

“I think you’re both going to try to be in charge so you’ll either fight like rabid dogs or fall wildly in love. Possibly both, as you’re each starting out with strong and long-term feelings for and about each other. And those feelings will shift and change if you ... suit up.”

“I’m not looking to fight or fall wildly. I’m just exploring a potential new dynamic. Is it weird for you?”

Interesting, she thought, they’d both asked her the same question. “I don’t know yet. When she gets in touch with you about the shoes, which she will even though she thinks she won’t, don’t gloat.”

“Only on the inside.” He turned into the parking lot of the garage. “She’s going to get in touch?”

“She really likes those shoes. Plus, she’ll decide not getting in touch is letting you win.” She leaned over, kissed his cheek. “Thanks for the lift.”

“I can wait for you. Mal’s around somewhere, so I can hang out with him until you’re set.”

“That’s okay.” If Del talked to Malcolm, then Malcolm would know she was there, and he’d certainly have something to say. She’d prefer to avoid it, and him. “I called ahead so they know I’m coming.”

“Of course you did. Well, tell Mal I’ll see him at poker night.”

“Hmm. Come to dinner next week.” She stepped out of the car. “We’ll do a big family dinner. I’ll check everyone’s schedule and let you know what night’s best if you’re open.”

“I can be open. Hey, Parker. You look pretty.”

She smiled. “Just keep your eyes off my shoes.” She shut the door on his laugh and walked into the office.

The frazzled woman with the orange hair and green-framed cheaters sat behind the counter and gave Parker a little come-ahead as she talked on the phone. A few discreet inquiries had given Parker the info that the woman was Malcolm’s mother.

Not that it mattered, particularly. She just liked to know who she was dealing with.