The Edge of Forever by Jenika Snow Read Free Book Online Page B

“You know, I did advertising for years, worked on the computer for hours a day, and could tell you any program out there and how it works, but when it comes to organizing samples with crazy-ass names, I’m computer-illiterate.”
    Blake chuckled again. He grabbed an extra chair and sat beside her. “The system is pretty outdated, but we are required to document and print our findings and send it to universities and research facilities. It’s a pain in the ass, but the government funds our research so they have us by the balls, so to speak.” Poppy gave him a coy look and started laughing.
    “I like it when you laugh. It sounds nice.” The air shifted around her, and her back straightened. “I’m sorry.” He went to stand, but her hand on his forearm stopped him. Blake looked at her.
    “No, it’s fine, it’s just…” She let go of his arm and looked away. “I feel kind of guilty.”
    He felt his brows knit. “Guilty? But why?”
    “Because I wasn’t thinking about Jon. I wasn’t thinking about anything aside from the way you make me feel.” She smiled again, but it didn’t reach her eyes. “I’m so happy around you, Blake, contrary to the way I’ve been acting, and I feel guilty that I find myself not thinking of Jon.”
    “Oh, Poppy, sweetheart.” He reached for her, but she shook her head and stood.
    “Listen, is it okay if I finish this tomorrow?”
    “Poppy, can we talk?” Bake stood, but she took another step back.
    She shook her head and offered a smile. “It’s time for me to go anyway. Can you take me home, or do you still have work to do?”
    Blake rubbed his hand over the back of his head and breathed out. She was right. It was time for her to go, but he didn’t want her leaving when she felt like this.
    “Everything okay?” Maggie stepped in the room and looked between them.
    “Yeah, Poppy is ready to go, so I’m going to have to finish up tomorrow.”
    “Blake, I don’t want to tear you away from anything. I can just wait until you’re done.” Poppy took a step forward and grabbed her jacket off the back of a chair. “I’ll just go sit in the front.” Poppy went toward the door.
    “No, no, Poppy. That’s crazy having you wait. It’s not a problem taking you home. I’m about done here anyway.” He offered her a reassuring smile.
    “Blake, we have to get those samples filed and packaged to send off to McKenzie Research Center. We are already behind.” Maggie was right. “I can take you home when we’re done if you want?” Maggie’s expression turned hopeful.
    “No, I can come in early tomorrow and finish it.”
    “Blake, that’s ridiculous. If you’re okay with it, I can just drive myself back.” Poppy slipped her coat on and grabbed her purse. “I don’t want to keep you from what you need to do.”
    “I don’t mind taking you home, Blake.” Maggie stepped further into the room, and he nodded.
    “Yeah, okay, if you’re okay with it, Poppy?”
    “Of course.”
    He handed her his car keys and saw her to the Yukon. When she was in the driver’s seat he leaned against the open window. “So you’re sure you remember how to get home?”
    Her cheeks were red from the chilled air. “Yeah, it’s a pretty straight shot, but I have my cell. If I get lost I’ll call you.”
    “Okay, well, send me a text when you get there.” He straightened and touched the hand closest to him. For several seconds they stared at each other. Blake couldn’t deny, couldn’t ignore, the tingle that traveled up his arm from the simple touch. He pulled his arm away and made a fist. Blake stood there and watched her drive away, knowing in his gut he should have gone with her. Poppy’s emotions were still raw, and she didn’t need to be alone.
    “She’ll be fine, Blake.” Maggie’s voice sounded behind him, but he didn’t bother turning around. He continued to watch the Yukon that got smaller and smaller. “Besides, once this is done the two of you will have all kinds