“Say hello to her for me, will you? Tell her I sourced an Earl Grey for her that’s up to our standards. I’d love to hear what she thinks of it.”
“Will do!” Kamila said.
“All right, peace out. Holler if you need me again.” He grinned happily as he walked away.
“He’s a lively young man,” Rohan said.
“Yeah, he’s great.”
“Sounds like he has a bit of a crush on Maricel. Some possible matchmaking material there?”
“Of course, who wouldn’t crush on Maricel? She’s a doll. She and Dane are progressing well, though, so no need for me to do any more matchmaking with her.”
“You’re not going to tell her that this guy bought tea specifically for her?”
“What’s the point? Dane’sreallyinto Maricel. I think it’s best if I don’t make it more complicated for her by introducing another potential admirer.”
“That’s ridiculous, Kam. Let her make her own choice!”
“I’m doing this to make her happy. She can do better than a skater-boy boba waiter—even if they’re both into tea. Dane has his own software company.”
Rohan shook his head. “That’s awfully elitist. I never pegged you for a snob. Even if it were necessary to match his career status to hers, she’s an attendant in an animal shelter.”
“Who is starting her own business, remember? I’m telling you, this obedience school is going to be huge. Trust me—Dane and Maricel are perfect for each other.”
Rohan shook his head. “I don’t get it, Kam. I know you love matchmaking, but there is a line between what you’re doing now and meddling. Plus, something about Dane rubs me the wrong way. He’s an ass kisser.”
“Of course he’s a butt kisser to you! You’reRohan Nasser!”
His eyes widened. “What’s that supposed to mean?”
“Rohan. You head one of the biggest personal and corporate finance firms in the country. You’ve been cited inFinancial Timesas one of Canada’s top executives to watch. You wear a suit and tie to a movie party. Of course mere mortals would love to lay their lips on your very fine rear end.”
He actually blushed. Rohan Nasser turned a shade reminiscent of the wallpaper behind him and ran his hand through his hair. “Don’t be absurd, Kam.”
“People want to know you. People want to bask in your glory.”
“So, everyone who’s nice to me only wants something?”
“All relationships are because someone wants something. Companionship, support, sexual release, whatever. Anyway, Dane’s a bit awkward. I think it’s charming that he was intimidated by meeting the great Rohan Nasser and wasn’t as subtle as everyone else with their kissing up to you.”
“Not everyone. I’m not sure you’re capable of subtle, and you never kiss my ass.”
Kamila cocked her head and chuckled. “You and me.” She reached out and ran her finger across his bearded cheek. “We’re beyond fake butt kissing. When we kiss each other’s rear ends, it’s completely honest. That’s why we’re such great friends.”
He shook his head, laughing. “Yes, Kam, you’re right. And that’s why you keep my life interesting.”
Chapter 13
Dad was in front of the TV when Kamila got home, watching a food reality show.
“What show is this?” she asked, picking up Darcy and scratching her ear.
“Home Cooking Showdown.” His eyes didn’t leave the screen. “Where were you? You missed dinner. There is so much biryani left.”
“Yeah, I told you. I ate with Rohan.” She stood watching the show for a few minutes. “Is the show any good?”
“My old friend told me about it—his daughter won the finals last year. He won’t stop talking about how proud he is. He says he has the most talented daughters in the world, but he’s wrong. Mine are.”
