Page 37 of Park Avenue Princess

“I happened to overhear a conversation regarding it, and Lynne DuVall informed me when we spoke earlier. She’s still going through her quarterly assessment and has other checks and balances to finalize. Let’s hope she doesn’t find any more missing funds.”

“I sure as shit hope not.”

I can’t help but laugh at her candor.

“Normally I’d apologize for using such language, but I am not pleased to know something hinky is going on with our city’s budget.”

“No apology needed, Karen. I’m not pleased either and plan to assist Ms. DuVall with her investigation, especially since it involves my office.”

“And mine. You be sure to let Lynne know that I’m happy to help in any way I’m able. Same goes for you.”

My mind instantly seizes this opportunity. “As a matter of fact, Lynne had to leave our meeting rather suddenly and I didn’t have the opportunity to get her number. Would you by any chance be able to help me with that?”

“Oh, of course.” Her voice perks up. “Hang on a sec while I get that for you.”

I barely contain the urge to pump my fist in the air. Karen reiterates her willingness to help before she gives me Lynne’s number and says good bye. I immediately program the information into my phone and set her profile picture. Unbeknownst to her, I took a picture on the sly when we hiked Diamondhead. Staring at the image of Lynne from six years ago brings a ridiculous smile to my lips. Over the years I’d pull it up from time to time when thinking about her, torturing myself with memories. But I don’t regret it. I couldn’t pass up the chance to capture her glee as she stood looking out toward the ocean, hair streaming in the wind, cheeks rosy from the exertion, and eyes filled with delight. It was a spectacular day. The day before she… left.

For an instant, my smile drops and my heart thuds.

But I don’t want to think about that right now. I want to remember the bliss, the joy we shared. I want to remember the fucking fantastic times we had and work on making them happen again.

With one final look, I set my phone aside and decide I better get some work done. I go over the budget and allocations, deciding where I can shift funds according to priority of projects. The STEAM initiative and HSSIP have been in place for a handful of years and have made a tremendous impact with the students. Getting them involved early with vocation interests puts them on a focused path with a higher chance of success after grade school. It’s one of my favorite programs, and one I won’t skimp on.

Another hour passes and I’ve made headway on my to-do list for the day. Tristen broke in for a few signatures on reports and projects, and reminded me of a follow-up phone conversation scheduled with Queens College regarding the economic symposium. Once that’s completed, with praises for the event and confirmed commitments for next year already, I’m itching to be done for the day.

What I’d really like is to meet back up with Lynne and see how the remainder of her day went. See what progress she’s made with the other divisions in city government and their budgets. Has she found more discrepancies? Has she tracked the source, or sources of the problem?

Would she consider having dinner with me?

Yeah, that last one is wishful thinking and probably won’t happen, given how she acted all-business and no-nonsense. Even seeing her with my own eyes, I’m still dazed that Lynne is myAddyand she’s here in New York.

I sigh and push away from my desk, tired of going round and round with her in my thoughts. I want her in my presence and I need a plan on how to make that happen. On a whim, I pick up my phone and text Hollis, asking him if he’s got a moment for me if I were to stop by his office. He immediately replies:

Hell yeah, come save me from my demon partner and let’s go get a beer ;)

I laugh as I let him know I’m happy to oblige and on my way. Running into Addison has to happen at some point, so I prepare myself for that likelihood; along with the probability of an inquisition.

On my way out, I say good night to Tristen, telling him to head out as well and to enjoy his evening. After a cab ride across town, I’m looking forward to a few cold brews and some conspiratory conversation with my man Hollis.

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