She pushed Flynn’s arm off, shaking her head at the childish hope that she’d disturb him and he’d reach for her, taking the choice away. Childish and stupid. She had no idea what time it was, it certainly wouldn’t do to be late for this damn meeting. Flynn gave a soft grunt and changed position as she slid from the bed. Seconds later his rhythmic breathing resumed.

It would have been blissful, had she been able to stay there staring at him. He really was a beautiful man.

She grabbed her robe from the back of the door and headed downstairs to where the big kitchen clock told her that, at a minute past nine, she’d plenty of time to spare. Her phone was in her handbag where she’d dropped it the previous night when there had been talk of coffee that had never materialised, both realising that the only stimulant each needed didn’t lie in caffeine. She smiled and pulled out her phone to check for messages. There was one from Rivka asking if she was okay and wondering if she were still alive. Jodie sent a reassuring reply, promising to ring later.

She rang her union to ask if it was too late to organise a rep to go with her that morning. Unfortunately, it was. Advised to reschedule the meeting to allow them to organise someone to attend, she shook her head. ‘No, thank you, it’s fine. I’d prefer to get it over with.’

She sat at the table to prepare herself for the meeting, but as she stared out over the courtyard all she could think of was what she’d do if she lost her job. There would be time to do the work outside she’d been planning to do for months – rearrange the pots, plant some spring bulbs, maybe paint the wall. If she lost her job…

‘Hi.’

Her head jerked around. ‘Hi, yourself.’

Flynn was dressed, looking remarkably good in jeans and a crumpled T-shirt.

‘You want to have a shower?’

He shook his head and held up his mobile. ‘A potential client I’ve been trying to get hold of for weeks is finally available.’ He pulled at his T-shirt. ‘I’d planned to work from home this afternoon, hence the casual gear. Now I have to go home and change.’

‘Poor you!’ She stood, stepped closer to slide her arms around his waist and rested her head on his chest. She wasn’t small but her five six was dwarfed by his six two. ‘Shall I make you some coffee before you go?’ His arms closed about her and she felt his lips on her forehead.

‘No, I’m good. I’ll get one at the train station.’