Page 25 of The Mouse and the Maestro

They turned and headed in the direction of their hotel. In true New York fashion, the streets were still filled with people. A few times they had to squeeze together to avoid bumping intosomeone. Their hands brushed, and Blue took hers, letting his fingers wind their way through hers.

They reached the hotel and he held the door for her. The walk to the elevator and their rooms was quiet, expectant. They stopped outside of Jane’s room and faced each other.

“Thank you for such a monumentally fun and interesting evening,” Blue said. “It was fun.” He still held her hand. He brought it to his chest, clutching it between both his hands now.

“Thank you, I had fun, too.” An awkward lull fell between them. Jane glanced at her door. “Would you like to come in for a cup of monumentally bad hotel room coffee?”

Blue looked at the door, too. “Thanks, but it’s been a long day, and I’m kind of exhausted.”

“Oh. Good night then.”

“Good night, Jane.” He let go of her hand and waited until she was safely inside before going to his room.

Chapter 12

Jane leaned on the door a minute and pulled her phone from her pocket.

Weird day, she texted Emily who worked second shift at the mental hospital and was probably now riding the Metro home.

How so? By the way, you’re right, he’s super cute. Like a blue-haired Keanu Reeves. I thought Nick might bust a neck artery after you guys left.

We had a good day and an even better evening. It felt more like a date than a business arrangement. He walked me to my door, mostly because his door is right next to it. And that was it.

No kiss?Emily asked.

Nothing. I invited him inside. He said no.

Ouch, that’s not good. She added a crying emoji.

I guess I misread him, and he’s not interested, Jane typed.

Maybe he’s really professional and serious about the job,Emily suggested.

He has blue hair and jokes all the time. It’s not him, it’s me. I’m man repellent,Jane said.

Uh, you had the same boyfriend for a decade, and he’s still pining.

The mention of Nick made Jane remember what he’d told her.I know about you two,she typed.

What about us?Emily asked.

That you’ve been kissing.

WHAT??Emily replied.I’d ask if you’re crazy, but I’m not supposed to say that word to my patients.

Nick told me,Jane replied, squinting. Had he told her that, or had he merely failed to correct her assumption when she said it? The memory was hazy. Either way, why would he have been dishonest? Except Nick often tried to manipulate events for his own selfish purposes.

He was clearly having one over on you. I would never. Ew. He’s like my brother and, hello, I saw him cheat on you three times. I’m not that dense, no offense.

None taken, Jane assured her.

My stop is coming up and I have to jet. I’m sorry it’s not working out with Blue Keanu Reeves. His loss. Men are stupid.

Thanks, Jane replied, tucking her phone onto the nightstand. She wasn’t yet ready for Emily’s commiseration. Some men were stupid, but Blue wasn’t. She liked him, but apparently the feeling wasn’t mutual.

She readied herself for bed, lay down, and reached for the lamp when a soft knock sounded on the door. She sat up, wondering if her ears had deceived her. Another knock followed. She padded to the door and cracked it open. Blue stood on the other side.

“I have a problem,” he blurted,

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