"Everything ready with the lab, then?" Judith asked.
"The technical part is. The financing of the lab, over the next five years, is not. But Kevin thought that wouldn't take too long."
"Good," Judith said as she stood. "I'm happy for him. Would you like some iced tea?"
"Please."
Judith deposited two tall glasses on the table. "So. What do you think of Brian?" she asked casually, as if the answer meant nothing to her.
Tanya dropped a slice of lemon into her glass and slowly sipped on her tea. She tried to gain time. "I believe his profile was prepared by a rather partial observer," she finally said.
Judith sighed. "I know."
"The only relevant fact I gathered is that he had three wives, and he's only forty-two. It doesn't take much insight to figure out that the man doesn't believe in commitment." Judith looked at her questioningly. Tanya thrust her hand in front of her. "Don't look at me for advice," she said. "There's a good chance that the relationship between the two of you won't last, either. But the guy wants you. You know that." She looked around to count the number of roses that arrived recently. "Thirty-six in one shot. A record."
"I'm concerned that he won't respect my work," Judith said, a twinge of anxiety washing over her.
"Well-by now, he's probably learned that your job is important to you. I personally believe what he claims, that he acted out of concern alone, that he had no intention of hurting your feelings."
"So, what's your conclusion?" Judith asked.
"There is no conclusion of any sort. It's up to you to accept his explanations, or reject them," Tanya said. She shrugged and finished her drink.
When Brian called, the next time, Judith had the answering machine turned off. She picked up the phone when it rang. "Yes?" she said. There was a moment of absolute silence.
"Just checking to see if Agent Judith Abramson had recently received flowers sent by a mysterious admirer," Brian said.
Judith had forgotten how soft and melodic Brian's voice could be. "Yes. Thank you, Brian. The roses were splendid, as usual."
"Glad you liked them." He paused for several seconds. "Would you like to have supper with an old friend?"
"Yes."
After several seconds more, Brian said, "Tonight, maybe?"
"Tonight," Judith replied softly.