The weekend ended all too quickly and the working week started over. Jamie enjoyed his job at the hospital, but he was already looking forward to the weekend, thanks to a text advising of another beach gathering to which he was invited.

By the time Thursday came around, Jamie was trying to keep focused on his job, but his mind wasn’t on coding and billing. Normally, he barely noticed when it was time for morning tea and quite often worked through just having some fruit and a drink at his desk. But today was different and he took the opportunity to hurry to the staff canteen.

Waving at his friend, Jamie treated himself to a chai latte and went to join Cameron at his table.

“Well, this is a surprise. You normally only join me for our regular monthly get-together, and even then I usually have to prompt you.” Cameron sipped at his own drink before taking a bite from his muffin.

“I know. But I had to tell someone, and you’re my best friend here.” Jamie leaned in close. “I have a secret admirer.”

“Really? That’s awesome. Secret, fuck! So I can’t ask who. What do you know?” Cameron leaned closer, dropping his voice as he did.

“As to who it is? Not a thing. But on Sunday morning there was a gift card for a bookshop on my deck and yesterday I took delivery of a large basket of fruit. Whoever it is, they know me well enough. But I can’t think of anyone who’d do something like this. Whoever they are, they certainly got my attention.”

“A fruit basket? Different.”

“Yes.” Jamie leaned forward. “A mix of summer fruits and exotics, and even some dried fruits. It was beautiful. And once the fruits are all gone, I’ll still have the basket. I can use it when picking my veggies from the patch.”

“Sounds very nice. And no one’s said anything to you, or behaved any differently?” Cameron scratched at his head. “No one’s said anything to me either. I can make a few discreet enquiries though if you’d like?”

“Thanks. I’d appreciate it.” Propping his chin in his hands, Jamie smiled at his friend. “You know, I always thought something like this would be really romantic, and I guess it is, kinda, but it’s killing me not knowing who it is.” Jamie took a healthy mouthful of his coffee, enjoying its spicy flavour.

“I’ll ask around. Very casually. Let you know if I hear anything.” Cameron cocked his head and studied Jamie. “Unless you think it’s someone outside the hospital?”

Laughing softly at his friend, Jamie shook his head. “I don’t know. Honestly. I know someone I’d like it to be, but he’s well out of my league.” Jamie shrugged. “But it’s still thrilling. I’ve never had anything like this happen before.”

“Don’t knock yourself, my friend. They don’t know what they’re missing.” Cameron waved his hand around. “I can assure you it isn’t me. I’d just ask outright for a date and an overnight stay.” Cameron winked and Jamie stifled a louder laugh.

“Well, I can eliminate one person then.” Jamie drained his cup and then checked his watch. “It never goes this fast when I’m at my desk. I have to get back.”

“Fine.” Cameron stood and gathered his cup and plate. “I’ll keep you posted.”

Waving at his friend, Jamie headed back to his office. Valentine’s Day is on Sunday. Will I find out who my admirer is on the day?