“I know you do. And it will be. Everyone will see how much thought and care you put into the night. You’re bringing a voice to an important cause. The love you have for your father will easily shine through, and people will understand how amazing he was just from what you’re doing. Everything will be fine. Just take a deep breath.” Jill heard Reagan inhale as she followed the direction.

“Thanks.”

“You’re welcome.”

“Look at you, you big softy. Calming me down with sweet words.”

Jill cleared her throat. “I don’t know what you’re talking about, Ms. Murphy.”

Reagan chuckled. “If you say so. But I should get going. I’ll talk to you later, okay?”

“Okay. Have a good night.”

“You too.”

As Jill ended the call, an idea struck. She shoved her laptop and notes into her bag and grabbed her coat. Passing by Ash’s desk, she dropped off a packet. “Can you get that up to finance? I’m heading out.”

“Already?” Ash asked, eyes wide. “It’s only six.”

“I have someone…I mean, something to take care of. See you tomorrow.”

Ash grinned, then replied in a teasing lilt, “Have a good night then, Ms. Jacobs.”

Jill shook her head as she turned away, fighting a grin of her own.

After a quick stop at home to change and then a detour to an Italian restaurant down the street from her condo, she made her way to Reagan’s place. As she parked behind the building, she second-guessed her decision. Maybe Reagan wasn’t the type of person to want her focus interrupted? Maybe she hated surprises? There were still so many things she needed to learn about Reagan. She didn’t want to upset her by being here. If that was the case, she could just drop off the food and leave. She grabbed her bag and the bag of takeout from the passenger seat. No time like the present.

When Reagan opened the door, her surprise was obvious. “Hi.” She looked Jill up and down and tilted her head. “Did you have the day off?” she asked, pointing to Jill’s clothes.

“No. I just stopped home really quick to get into something comfier.” She held up the bag of food. “And I stopped for this.”

“Yay, food! What is it?”

“Lasagna.”

Reagan grabbed the front of her jacket and pulled her in, closing the door behind her. “You really know the way to a girl’s heart.” She kissed Jill softly. “Thank you,” she whispered.

“No need to thank me. I didn’t make it.” Jill set the bag on the counter and hung her coat and bag on a stool. “On second thought, you should thank me for that. We know this food is safe.”

Reagan chuckled. “Come on, you goof. Let’s eat on the couch.”