Page 59 of High Seduction
“If we’re just making a delivery, why not?” he reasoned. “We still don’t have to report for work for a couple of days. And there’s more than enough room for Matt to join us even with the rest of the team.”
“No team,” Erin added, eyes on her phone. “It looks like it’s just you and me.”
“That’s crazy.” Didn’t anyone know how to relax anymore? “Did everyone else sprout wings and fly home without us?”
His sarcasm pulled a reluctant laugh from her. “Check your e-mail. There have been a whole slew of updates from everyone since we left them at the airport. Tripp and Anders actually went home yesterday morning to spend their time off in Banff.”
“That makes sense.” Tim spoke down the table toward Matt, who had rested his elbows on the table and was listening intently. “Tripp’s boyfriend isn’t out here. He’d want to be with him,” he explained.
Matt nodded.
Erin was still scrolling through e-mails. “Get this, though. Devon found out there’s a training session being offered by the coast guard next week, and somehow convinced Marcus it was vital for him and Alisha to stay and take part.”
Amusement hit instantly. “Poor Alisha. Does this mean she has to use a scuba suit in the Pacific at this time of year?”
“Probably. Devon I expect that kind of insanity from, but Alisha is into tropical temperatures.” Erin shuddered. “She’s going to freeze.”
“They’re in love—that’s more than enough to keep her warm.”
Their gazes met, and for a second hope stirred in the dark, beautiful depths before Erin jerked herself away, as if hiding from him.
Some things they weren’t ready to even think about—he got that, but her quick denial seemed harsh.
He focused back on their current dilemma. “Then that makes it even easier to fit Matt in.”
Erin glanced at his friend. “Would you be interested in flying with us? Like Tim said, there’s no reason you couldn’t come along. It’s about a four-hour trip, and I can guarantee some great views. You’d have to find a way home, though.”
Matt waved a hand. “If you’re headed to Calgary, I can take advantage of the opportunity and book meetings for next week. I would love a semiprivate tour of the glaciers.”
“Then we’re settled,” Tim said. “Erin, you want to set up a liftoff time with the authorities?”
She nodded, far more relaxed than a moment ago. “Two hours from now? Three?”
“Three. No need to rush out of here, and the trip is short enough we’ll still be flying in the light even if we leave later.” Tim gestured toward the hot plates in front of Matt. “You planning on sharing any of that?”
Their host smiled happily and held out his hand. “Let me load your plate for you.”
“One second.” Erin typed quickly, then smiled as she put the phone down on the table. “Done. I’ve requested a leisurely departure time just after lunch. I’ll check back after breakfast to confirm we’re a go.”
They played pass the plate, Erin handing off to Matt then returning it on the way back.
Matt held her plate for an extra moment. “Sausage? Bacon? Your choice.”
“Anything is fine,” Erin answered.
“You didn’t ask my preferences,” Tim pointed out, waving a sausage-loaded fork in the air.
Matt snorted. “Your plate is full. That’s what you’d ask for. I know you too well, my friend. Only Erin is a new guest, and she needs to ask for what pleases her most.”
He turned his attention on her, no trace of teasing as he waited.
Erin eyed the food. “Extra bacon, please.”
“Ahh, an excellent choice.” Matt loaded her plate with bacon and scrambled eggs. “And after we eat, I’ll make arrangements for Jason to drive us to the airfield.”
“Sounds great.”
“Tim, you need to do anything to prep for leaving?”
