Remington's smile widened as he checked the time on his wrist watch. Quirking an eyebrow he followed behind her, watching intently as resumed her task. "Laura, your sense of humor warms me to no end. Actually I've been up for quite some time. It's not that I can't get up early, which you very well know, it's that Friday nights offer an enormous selection of classic movies to view. I find myself up till the wee hours enjoying my all time favorites. Of course, there are other things I'd enjoy more than Bogart, were I offered the company of one lovely brunette that I'm quite taken with."
Remington wound his arms around Laura to accentuate the point. Laura would have had to be in a coma not to hear the subtle innuendoes throughout that statement. Putting her arms around his neck, she leaned in and smiled seductively.
"Why Mr. Steele, whatever did you have in mind for us that would in any way, shape or form rival the attention you afford Bogie?"
"Funny you should ask Miss Holt. I came over this morning to tell you that I'll be going out of town for a few days visiting an old friend of mine, Milo DeWinter. He is on an extended stay in Antigua. He called recently to ask if I could come down to visit. He sounded quite in need of my assistance, so I thought I'd go. I'd like nothing better than to have you accompany me Laura, I think the two of us could use the time off, call it a mini vacation of sorts. Time well spent sunning and relaxing in one of the most beautiful settings the West Indies has to offer," He looked at her pointedly. "So, what do you say Laura?"
Laura looked at Remington, the excitement evident in his eyes. He truly wanted her to go but she didn't know if it would be wise. They'd been on vacations alone before. One thing or another always happened to ensure they were never truly alone, coming between them and their visions of carnal bliss. They were inching closer too finally consummating their long drawn out relationship. Laura wondered if Antigua would be the place where it would happen for them. Then she thought about his friend, Milo DeWinter. What type of help he needed from Remington and what it would entail? She trusted him and was certain it wasn't anything that would endanger him or the agency but still...
"You know Remington, I think it would be better if you went to see Mr. DeWinter alone. It would give the two of you the perfect opportunity to catch up on old times and see what he needs help with. I really would love to go with you, but I've got a ton of things here that require my attention and I don't want to leave Mildred alone trying to juggle everything. You understand don't you?"
Hell no! I don't understand. Remington thought to himself. Was she crazy? This was a wonderful opportunity for them to be alone together. No bloody phones ringing, no desperate people pleading with them to take their case, no guns firing and no thugs trying to beat him to a pulp. It would just be pink and white sandy beaches, lovely tropical breezes and a myriad of ways for them to enjoy one another’s company. Remington's conscious complained even as his mouth formed and pasted a smile on his lips. Well, so much for finally moving forward in their pursuit of physical pleasure his conscience grumbled.
"While I don't share your view on the subject, it's your decision. I won't say that I'm not disappointed by your answer. I was truly hoping to share your company on this trip, but I guess it wasn't meant to be eh?"
Laura sensed the let down even though he smiled at her. She could kick herself for being such a coward about going with him but she wasn't completely ready to make love with him. She wondered when she would be and hoped like hell it wouldn't be too late.
Remington gave Laura a quick kiss on the lips before walking to the door. Turning, he studied her briefly. They would have to seriously talk when he returned. He more than desired Laura; he loved her to distraction. He was beyond tired of the chaste life they were both leading, all in the name of caution. They needed to shake things up, and be damned with the consequences! Oh yes, he and the prim and proper Miss Holt would indeed discuss a few things upon his return.
"I'll see you in a few days Laura. I'm sure you and Mildred will hold down the fort admirably in my absence. By the way, lovely Monet," he winked at her and left.
"Damn! Now why in the world did I go and do that?" Laura sighed plopping onto the couch.
###
Remington was tipping a porter for retrieving his bags when he saw someone approaching. He blinked a few times then burst into a grin. Closing the distance between them the two men went straight into a bear hug. There was a loud round of back slaps, as they heartily embraced.
"I'd know you anywhere you scoundrel! You are looking quite the man these days, I must say! Lord it’s been awhile, hasn't it Xenos?"
"I'll say it has mate and you're looking quite well yourself Milo. Apparently the Antiguan breezes suit you well," Remington concluded.
"You know me Xenos, I'm a man of many passions; warm climates and women being just the tip of the iceberg! Come, let's get your bags and I'll show you my small piece of paradise. Or should I be calling you Remington Steele?" Milo said wickedly motioning Remington toward the awaiting limo.