"How are you holding up, Charly?"
"Fine, McKinnon. I heard you were busy working with the cleanup crews. How are they progressing?"
"Quite well. Hydro and phones have been restored, most of the streets are open now, and people are beginning to think about rebuilding. But there's still plenty to do. I'd like to take you out for that dinner tonight, if you are free."
"I could be, I guess. I'll need an hour to go home and get changed. What did you have in mind?"
"Something relaxed and quiet in Belleville. I've already got reservations for eight." Grinning at her, he continued, "You see, I'm psychic too. I knew you'd say yes. I'll pick you up at seven-thirty."
"Don't get too sure of yourself, McKinnon. I might turn you into a frog."
"The sooner the better, little witch. Then you'll be obliged to kiss me to get rid of the spell. See you later." And he ran down the steps to his car, before she could think of a suitable retort.
Charly dressed carefully for her dinner date. She had to admit that she was excited about the prospect of dining with him. She enjoyed their conversations and the feeling of understanding that was developing between them.
When McKinnon arrived, he came in and visited with her parents for a few minutes. Charly admired the easy way he had with them and the fact that he appeared in no hurry to run off with her.
Driving to Belleville, he commented on how relaxing her parents' home seemed to be. She wondered if he was unconsciously comparing it to his own, before his divorce. If what he had said about his wife was true, she was sure his home must have been anything but relaxing.
When the wine he ordered had been brought to the table, he toasted `our new little Inspector' and somehow Charly didn't mind being called little. It had often annoyed her in the past, especially during her school years.
Once again, the restaurant lived up to expectations, and they talked little as they dined on escargot, filet mignon, baked potato and asparagus tips. As they relaxed over Spanish coffee, though, they fell into easy conversation, like old friends meeting after a lengthy separation.
"So, Little Farm Inspector, have you run into any problems yet?"
"Hardly, McKinnon. I've been helping in the office since we got home the other day. But I do have a problem. Can you tell me of any houses to rent, preferably out in the country? I want to get out on my own now that I'm gainfully employed."