"So, your saying our system is hackable?"

I leaned back in my office chair before I answered Deputy Director Scofield of the FBI. It took me a little while to investigate his security system; only to verify his suspicions. Their system was not one hundred percent secure. It would definitely take someone with extreme skills to breach it, and it would be stupid to think someone out there wasn't capable. 

"That's right," I answered, "don't get me wrong, it's a great program. But, if the wrong people try to infiltrate the FBI..."

"They may be able to get into our system," he finished. He let out a long breath and I could picture him running his hands through his thick brown hair. The few times I met him, he seemed to always do that when he was frustrated. He was fresh out of a promotion and couldn't be older than forty-six.  "What do you suggest?"

That was a question that had many different answers. He could either keep the system he had, because in all fairness, it was decent. Or, he could have someone beef up the security system. The other option was one I didn't want to present to him. Basically, I could try to come up with a whole new security system for their office.

I relayed all that information to him and let him think about it for a few minutes. I knew what he was going to say, and I was hoping he wouldn't. If I created a new software for them, that was going to take up a lot of my time. So much went into making a new product. It was going to mean late nights and barely any sleep for a good six weeks.

"Do you think you can create something better than what we currently have?"  

"I can definitely try," I answered honestly. "While I'm working on it, we can leave the current security system you have in place. Like I said, it works extremely well and should suffice until I can come up with something."

"Let's do that," Scofield said confidently. "I'll keep in touch with you over the next couple weeks to see what you come up with. If you need anything, you know how to reach me."

"Sounds good," I said before we hung up the phone.

I placed my cell phone down on my desk before I leaned forward, burying my face in my hands. I've been feeling exhausted lately, and this wasn't going to help. As much as I enjoyed working for the FBI, I didn't expect it to be this taxing. I didn't regret the decision to sell my company, however. It was probably one of the best decisions I ever made.

"Another big project, Mr. Williams?"

I looked up at Anne as she stood in front of my desk with a smile. "Yeah, the deputy director wants me to try to create a whole new security system for their field office. You know what that means?" 

"Of course I do," she quipped. "That means Ms. Preston isn't going to be pleased. But, I'm sure you will make it up to her." 

She wasn't wrong. Lydia liked that I found a job I actually enjoyed, but it was a strain for both of us when it cut into our personal time. There have been multiple times when a date night was cancelled, or one of us showed up late. We never really got mad at the other one for it, we just knew it was a let down. 

"Yes," I said to Anne, "Friday is Valentine's Day and she's agreed to let me take her to dinner." 

"That's great!" She exclaimed. Since Lydia and I have been together, Anne has gotten to know her. Lydia was the first girl that Anne approved of. Even though she was my assistant, I considered her a good friend. There has never been anything more than a platonic relationship between us. 

"Yeah. I was hoping she would let me get her a gift, but I don't think that's going to happen. You know Lydia," I sighed. 

She nodded with a laugh. "Yes, I do. May I offer some advice?" 

"Of course." I leaned forward in my chair and rested my arms on my desk while I waited curiously for Anne to continue. 

"If you get her something special that interests her, maybe she will be more accepting." 

I frowned. "Don't I always get her something that interests her?" 

Anne grimaced. "Yes and no. I believe you get her things that you like for her."

I thought about what she said for a moment. I knew Lydia didn't like when I spent a lot of money on her. She loved our little cabin vacation. Well, aside from the poison oak. It barely cost more than a couple hundred dollars for the weekend; and it was just the two of us. Maybe she would like more stuff like that. "I...think I understand," I responded. 

"May I offer a suggestion?" Anne asked. 

I ran my hand over my face. "Am I that transparent? Yes, please," I begged.

Anne stepped closer and picked up the documents for the new security system I was going to have to make. "Take a break from this. I know you're going to be swamped over the next few weeks." She set them back down and met my gaze. "Why don't you take a few days off like you did with the cabin. Offer her a day or two here with no work calls or anything."

I liked that idea. "Shouldn't I get her something else, too? Or do I just...tell her?" 

"Get her some flowers. Nothing fancy or expensive. Oh, and her favorite chocolate." 

I clapped my hands together as I jumped to my feet with excitement. This was perfect. I wouldn't be spending much money, and I also would be offering her something she truly enjoyed. I was still planning on asking her to move in, but I wanted to keep that a surprise. "Thank you, Anne," I said as I walked around my desk to stand in front of her. "This was a big help." 

"You're welcome. Have a great day, Mr. Williams. I'll see you tomorrow," she replied before leaving my office. 

Just as I sat back down, my cell phone rang. I felt the corner of my cheeks lift when I saw the name on the caller-ID. "Hey, baby. How was shopping?" 

"It was great, actually. I got a few things and helped Ellie with her guy issues." 

I laughed into the receiver. I was so grateful that Lydia had Ellie. When we returned to New York from our crazy road trip, she didn't know anyone. She was nervous about starting school and living in a dorm with a stranger. When she met Ellie, it was an instant connection. They were good for each other. "Ellie's having guy issues?" 

"Yeah. There's a guy in her Physics class that likes her. They went on one date last week. He wants to take her out for Valentine's Day, but she's a little hesitant to go out with him again after what happened at the frat party."

"I don't blame her." I still remembered the night I got drugged in New Orleans vividly. One second, I'm waiting for Lydia to get on stage and sing karaoke. Then the next, I had lost all control of my mind and body. I still couldn't believe that PSYCHO Amy would pull something like that. But, that's all in the past now; and that bitch is in jail. 

"So, I kind of got you something," she said, surprising me as she brought my thoughts back to the present. 

My brows lifted in surprise. "Oh, really? What happened to no gifts?" 

She giggled on the other end of the line and I knew she was probably blushing. "I know, but this is different. It's kind of...for both of us." 

I leaned back in my chair with a cheesy grin. I had no idea what this gift was, but I knew I was going to like it. "Oh, really? Well, I have to admit that I did the same for you." 

"Sean..."

"Oh, no you don't," I interrupted. "You just admitted to breaking your own rule. So, I get to do the same." I tapped the desk. "Besides, I was considerate and followed your 'rules' regarding money." 

"Fine!" She laughed; but it was different. She seemed...very excited.

"What has you in a good mood?" I asked wryly. 

"I got accepted in the art show!" She squealed so loudly into the phone, I had to hold it away from my ear. "They just called me! I got in, Sean. All by myself." 

"Lydia, that's amazing. God, I'm so fucking proud of you," I breathed. 

"I couldn't believe it, Sean. They just called me and said they would be honored to have me in their show! I get to paint two new pieces that will be put up for sale." 

I don't think I have ever heard Lydia sound so excited, or proud, since I've met here. "Where are you right now?" I asked her.

I heard a knock at my front door and frowned as I got up to answer it. It was almost midnight. Who the hell was here? "Babe, one second. Someone's here." 

I opened the door and paused. 

"I'm right here," Lydia said as she threw her arms around my neck. "I wanted to come straight here when I got the news!" 

I wrapped my arms around her waist as I pulled her inside and kicked the door closed. "Congratulations, baby." I set her down on her feet and gave her a sound kiss. "I'm so glad you're here. Why don't we open some wine to celebrate." 

She tucked her bottom lip between her teeth and smiled shyly. "I'm craving something sweet tonight." 

Nostalgia filled me at her words. That's what she said on our first 'not' date in New Orleans. "Moscato, then?" 

"Moscato," she breathed against my lips.