53. A Box

I dashed out of the office, almost bumping into Regan at the door. His hands were up so I figured he was just about to knock on the door.

“Hi Cat.” He greeted, eyeing me suspiciously. I mumbled a reply but the words that spilled out of my mouth seemed incoherent. I didn’t know if he heard me, I didn’t stop to wonder, I made my way towards the stairs and into the kitchen.

I was almost out of breathe when I got to the bottom of the staircase. Nicole was in the kitchen when I walked in. She raised her head in my direction at the sound of my footsteps.

“If it isn’t the lady of the hour.” She announced, smiling and looking in my direction. I greeted her with a confused look.

“What is that about?” I asked, sincerely lost.

“You’re scarce these days so I feel honored whenever I see you.” She said, returning her attention to the contents of the pot that sat on the heater.

“I’ve just been occupied Nicole, it’s nothing serious.” I replied, knowing exactly what she was hinting at.

“Busy w