Chapter 13

Before she rang the bell, Erica smoothed down the organdy fabric of her new dress. After her meeting with Nico Sloan, she found it almost impossible to concentrate on work, so she had taken the rest of the day off to go on a shopping trip. Besides, she hadn't bought herself anything new in ages. The minute she spotted the butter yellow dress with its floral design, she knew it would be perfect for an informal spring evening. Of course, that also meant a trip to the shoe store, and Erica could hardly pass up a deal on gold sandals.

Now she waited a few seconds after she pressed the doorbell. Nico Sloan answered promptly and gave his temporary neighbor a welcoming smile.

"Wow! You look great, Erica!" he commented as his dark eyes took in her outfit, but more importantly, the woman in it. He opened the door wider. "Come on in."