Jack wandered into the office to find Nikki bent over her desk, Clarissa busying herself on her laptop and Thomas sat in his office with paperwork.
"Happy Valentine's day" he exclaimed, cheerfully. Nikki looked up, surprised to find him standing next to her with a huge bunch of beautiful, orange roses.
"Aww, Jack!" she murmured, deeply touched by his gesture.
Nikki was the only one who was surprised. Thomas, who had just wandered in and Clarissa were both watching with interested astonishment..
"What? Can't I buy my best friend flowers?" he commented, slightly miffed that they didn't appear to think he was capable of a spontaneous, tender action. "Clarissa has a husband to buy her flowers. I didn't want you to feel left out."
"I wouldn't have complained." Clarissa muttered in mock disappointment.
Nikki stood up. "Thank you, honey, you're very sweet." She said softly, reaching up to place a soft kiss on his cheek. He smiled and put them in her hands. "They're beautiful, Jack. gorgeous."
He hugged her, ignoring the fact that both Thomas and Clarissa were still watching. "Would you like to go for dinner tonight? You shouldn't be alone on Valentine'S.2
"Mmm, that sounds lovely." she answered, hugging him back.
"Is that like a date?" Clarissa ventured.
"I'm going out for dinner with my best friend." Nikki answered simply, aware that she wasn't really answering the question. She turn back to Jack. "Formal or casual?" she asked, indicating her clothes.
"I don't mind." Jack answered. "You can go like that if you want. You always look lovely anyway."
Blooming gorgeous. He thought.