“That’s just what I’ve been telling them. They think I’m awfully dumb.” We all laughed at the salesmen.
Mike was thoughtful. “If we’re going to do this sort of thing very often, we ought to have some of these fancy hollow-stemmed glasses.”
The blonde was pleased with that. “And we could keep them in my bottom drawer.” Her nose wrinkled prettily. “These bubbles— You know, this is the only time I’ve ever had champagne, except at a wedding, and then it was only one glass.”
“Pour her another,” Mike suggested. “Mine’s empty too.” I did. “What did you do with those bottles you took home last time?”
A blush and a giggle. “My father wanted to open them, but I told him you said to save it for a special occasion.”
By that time I had my feet on her desk. “This is the special occasion, then,” I invited. “Having another, Miss… what’s your first name, anyway? I hate being formal after working hours.”
She was shocked. “And you and Mr. Laviada sign my checks every week! It’s Ruth.”
“Ruth. Ruth.” I rolled it around the piercing bubbles, and it sounded all right.
She nodded. “And your name is Edward, and Mr. Laviada’s is Migwell. Isn’t it?” And she smiled at him.
“MiGELL,” he smiled back. “An old Spanish custom. Usually shortened to Mike.”