Gus Comes to Visit

Despite her best efforts, a smile crept onto Miriam's face as Gus settled himself in the chair opposite her. He rested one boot on his denim-clad knee. She glanced at the footwear, resisting the urge to break into a cowboy drawl.

"Don't you know other people?" Miriam tucked some hair behind her ear. Had she chewed off her lipstick?

The plaid wing-back chair dwarfed most of her clients, but not Gus. His lanky frame seemed made for the piece of furniture. She couldn't decide whether the pattern or the style suited him.

"Yes, but none as fascinating as you."

She swallowed. "You are so damned charming."

"What? That was honest." His eyes widened. "You are fascinating. And I'm wondering why you've been so close to trouble so many times this week?"