As a consequence she overslept, and Liz woke her just before seven with the news that Pierce had already arrived and was waiting downstairs for her. Feeling befuddled, she stumbled out of bed, threw on her pale blue bathrobe, and went to the head of the stairs to call softly down. Pierce immediately appeared from the direction of the den, and she saw the quick grin that slashed across his features. 'I'm sorry,' she said, pushing her tousled hair from her forehead. 'I'll be down in a few minutes. I just wanted to ask you about what I should wear.' 'Something sturdy and casual should do it, I think,' he replied, taking his time as he looked her over from head to foot. His lids drew down, making him appear lazy, indolent. 'Of course,' he added silkily, 'there's not a thing wrong with what you're wearing.' She laughed and let her hair fall forward in an attempt to hide her blush. 'Have you had breakfast?' 'Coffee.' He was watching her, his head thrown back, with every sign of fascination. 'Liz could fix us something to eat, if you'd like.' 'Only if we can have it alone.
