A Fare To Remember_ Just Whistle_Driven - Vicki Lewis Thompson [106]
He gently pushed her back against the edge of his desk and then lifted her up to sit in front of him. Sabina parted her knees and he stepped closer, their mouths still caught in an endless kiss. His hands drifted from her face to her thighs and he bunched the gauzy fabric of her skirt in his fists.
When he finally drew back, his eyes were cloudy with desire. “That is what I believe in,” he said in a husky voice. “That feeling. That’s all that matters, Sabina. And I hope you’ll realize that someday.”
With that, he grabbed Sabina’s elbow and escorted her to the door. He opened it, then pushed her through, before shutting it behind her. She stood outside, dazed and bewildered, the envelope still clutched in her hand.
“Well,” she said. “At least I know how he feels. I guess I just need to figure out how I feel.”
CHAPTER SIX
THOUSANDS OF TINY LIGHTS illuminated the rooftop garden of Ruta’s building. A small crowd had gathered there for an engagement party for Mario and Iris. Sabina’s grandmother was taking full credit for giving Mario the courage to propose, so she’d felt compelled to throw the party. Yet another one of her prophecies had come true.
Sabina grabbed a bottle of champagne and filled her flute, then gulped it down in a few quick swallows. She refilled the glass before wandering over to the hors d’oeuvres table. It was wonderful, she had to admit. Mario was head over heels in love and it was clear that Iris shared the sentiment.
“Don’t they make a lovely couple?” Ruta stepped up from behind her and slipped her arm around Sabina’s waist.
“They do. They seem very happy.”
“You know, I have been considering what I might do with all my money once the sale goes through. I thought I might take a trip back to the old country. And I would like you to come with me. I think you need to know where your ancestors come from.”
“I don’t know, Nana. I’ve got so many things to decide. I’ve got to find a new place to live, and if I’m going to open a boutique, I’m going to need to find retail space.”
“Have you talked to Alec?”
Sabina watched the bubbles rise in her champagne glass, then took a long sip. “No. I’ve been trying to decide how I feel. I do love him, Nana, but after all that happened, I’m not really sure that he loves me. What if he did fall in love with me because of the amulet and the potion?”
“Bina, you needn’t worry. The amulet is just clay with a few scratches in it, held by a piece of red yarn. And the potion was nothing more than honey and a bit of brandy.”
Sabina gasped. “Really? But I thought—”
“It is all…how do they say…smoke and mirrors. The man loves you and that much is true. Now, what are you going to do about it?”
Sabina felt emotion clog her throat. “Oh, Nana, I’ve been so stupid.”
“Yes, you have, Bina. Why don’t you be smart and go talk to that man of yours.” She nodded to her right. “He’s over there.”
“He’s here?” Sabina whirled around and immediately saw Alec, perched on the edge of the rooftop wall. He was dressed in a casual shirt and khakis, and even in the heat, he managed to look cool and composed.
“Dance with that young man of yours, Bina. He looks lonely sitting over there.”
“What is he doing here?” Sabina asked.
“Mario invited him. He tried a little matchmaking between the two of you and it didn’t work out. He thought he’d give it one last shot. This is his party, Bina. Make him happy and dance with Alec.”
Sabina straightened her spine and pasted a smile on her face, then slowly crossed the roof deck. Alec saw her and stood, taking a few steps toward her. They met in the vicinity of the dance floor, but Sabina found herself frozen in place, unable to move.
“How’s the ankle?” she asked.
“Great,” Alec replied. “And I’ve been sleeping well. No more bad dreams. And business has been good.