“Ah, a matchmaker who believes in fate.”
If he only knew the half of it.“I admit, I’m one big cliché. But it’s my truth.” Nico didn’t strike her as the type who’d have any trouble finding a date. Charisma rolled off his broad shoulders in waves. “Well then, if you’re ready, we can get started. May I ask why you’re interested in using a matchmaker?” Without thinking, she reached up and toyed with the blue topaz on the chain around her neck. The stone had been a gift from her dad and Drew for her twenty-fifth birthday.
“This was Willow’s idea,” he pointed out. “She raved about your matchmaking skills. When your sister in-law gives you a suggestion, you take it, even if magic and witchcraft aren’t my thing.” In the enclosed space, she caught another whiff of Nico’s cologne and could smell summer on his skin.
Focusing on the man in front of her—and not the sexual fog flitting around in her brain— she tilted her head to the side. “Don’t worry. This isn’t about me putting a spell on you or another person, or making you drink a potion to fall in love. It’s about using astrology to match you up with the perfect person for you, and to see if your stars align.”
He leaned back in his chair and visibly relaxed. “It seems all the women I’m interested in already have boyfriends or are seeing someone. I guess my timing has been off.”
The story of my life.“It’s always about the timing. You can think of what I do as bringing the human element to getting matched. Do you mind if I ask about any previous long-term relationships, and what your current dating habits are like?” The second she posed the question, a flair of disappointment welled in her chest. While a part of her was still sad over her breakup with Joe, she couldn’t stop imagining herself on a date with Nico. Shaking her head, she refused to go there.
“I don’t have a lot of time to meet people. And when I do go out, I don’t have much in common with the women I meet online. Their priorities are different. They’re always looking over their shoulders for the next best-thing. The truth is I’m tired of swiping right.” Nico ran a hand through his hair. His raw honesty softened her heart.
“Fair enough. I’m guessing you and your date from the wedding broke up?”
“The sparks just weren’t there. I value family and my job keeps me pretty busy, so I want to share my off time with someone who’s worth it, someone who’s exciting. I want to explore the world with that person.” His gaze locked with hers and the air shifted between them.
“Hmm, I think I can help. I appreciate your honesty and trusting me with your love life.” Damn that sounded corny. “I assure you everything’s strictly confidential. Okay, are you ready to get started?”
“You’ve certainly piqued my interest. How do you match me up?” His gaze narrowed as he glanced over at her computer.
“I use a combination of astrology, algorithms, and my Ephemeris.” Brooke pointed to the leather-bound tome on her desk. “This book gives me insight as to what the solar system is doing, the planets’ positions, retrogrades, eclipses, and, well, the signs from above.”
“It’s like your Escoffier, the main book we chefs use to learn how to cook.”
“Exactly. Good analogy. I take your personality traits and goals, and then I match you up with someone who has similar ideals. These women will be vetted and background checked, as well as checked out on social media. Why don’t you tell me what you’re looking for?” she asked, holding her breath, waiting for his reply.
“I’m looking for my soulmate.”
Brooke almost fell off her chair. How refreshing. “Wow, most of my clients don’t speak in such honest terms.”She didn’t know guys like him even existed. His romantic heart spoke to her on every level, another reason to avoid gorgeous, charismatic men like Nico Denopoulos at all costs. Even if she was interested, things wouldn’t work out. They never did.
A smile flashed across his handsome face. “I like to be upfront. So what’s the first step?”
“I can do a personalized compatibility report to help you find your matches and get you started.”
“Willow says you’ve got a gift for matching people up.” A spark of excitement flared in his eyes.
“Thanks.” She swiveled in her chair, angling her head to a collage of photos of some of her clients on the opposite wall. “We’ve seen seven marriages and seventeen engagements.”
“I’m in your capable hands.” A shiver moved through her at his intimate tone. An image of Nico in all his male glory flashed through her mind. From the size of his hands and feet, she’d bet her Ephemeris he’d be well-hung. She turned back to face him, trying to keep her expression neutral.
“Are you okay?” His gaze traveled the length of her, making her whole body tingle. “You’re all flushed.”
Busted.“Uh, this room tends to get warm.” She cleared her throat and turned the fan on high. “If you decide to move forward, you’ll be matched with three dates per week, for three months.”
“And you personally choose them?”
“I hand pick every single one. I’ll be matching you with women you’re astrologically compatible with. We can discuss things like generosity, values, humor, chemistry, and hobbies beforehand. You can contact me anytime, day or night.” She handed him her card with her cell number on the back. “I’m extremely dedicated to all of my clients.” Why did her voice sound throaty on the last part?
Nico flashed a sexy smile that would make any of his dates lose their minds—and their panties. “I appreciate that.”
“I typically start out by asking some questions and then doing a complimentary birth chart.” She motioned to her screen. “It’s based on the astronomical snapshot of where the stars and constellations were the moment you were born.”
“Willow said you might ask me that question, so I called my mom.”
From the sweet way Nico said her name, Brooke sensed their closeness and found the connection endearing. “Awesome. You came prepared.”
“I was born March 21, 1996. At 2:00 p.m.”