“My notches?” It’s best to play the innocent until the full accusation has been laid out before me.
“Eyes have been watching us since you approached me. You merely have to look in one direction to have a server pop up for your orders, and even your friends look to you with envy. Someone with such power and popularity comes to one of these events alone?” She shakes her head. “I’m not what you’re looking for, but I’m sure, given a few more minutes, you’ll find the right girl for the night.”
I laugh. Is there any other fitting reaction after what she’s said?
Her lips, plump and kissable, press together into a hard line. “I’m just not interested, Mr. Gray, but thank you for the invitation.”
I pull back, forcing a civility to my smile. “Of course, Sylvia.” I take a step back from her, a small show of defeat, even if it is in pretense only. She’s made her choice on how the next steps will play out, and now all she has to do is let them play.
“It was nice to meet you.” Her smile is more natural now; she’s comfortable in the belief she’s rid of me.
“Meeting you was exactly as I thought it would be.” Even better because she’s denied me. Or so she’s thought. “Have a pleasant evening.” All of this civility is going to make my dinner reappear.
I turn on my heel and march through the gallery, pulling out my phone and texting my driver to meet me at the front of the museum steps.
Once in the car, I make a phone call.
“As we discussed. Do not hurt her,” I instruct.
I hang up the call and glance at the rearview mirror. I catch a glimpse of her walking down the last steps of the museum and into the back of a cab.
I hope she sleeps well tonight.
Because tomorrow is going to be hell for her.