“Did you want to do something else? Like get a bite to eat?” I asked Cyndee, who was equally relieved, but also sad for my nieces.
“I think I should just go home. If I spend too much time with you, I might actually enjoy myself,” she said teasingly.
“I think I’m insulted. You don’t want to share a meal with me because you don’t want to be my friend?”
“Let’s be honest. After this act is over, it will be weird seeing each other the way we used to. You as my client and me as your cleaning lady. Let’s not blur the lines.” She turned her head to peer out the window.
“They’re already blurred. I kissed you for God’s sake.” I gently placed my hand on her cheek and turned her face so I could see her face. “After next weekend, will I see you again?”
“Don’t ask me that.”
“Should I take that as a no? I won’t see you again.” My heart started to race.
“I’m the hired help, Fabio. Beneath you in every imaginable way. Why would you want to be my friend?” Tears appeared in her eyes.
“I see what you’re saying. I don’t think I could have you cleaning my toilets anymore.” Jesus, what a huge mess I’d created. “What will you do after next weekend?”
“Well, I’ll be a millionaire, so I guess anything I want.” She smiled but I saw the sadness in her brown eyes.
“You can treat yourself and do all the things you dreamed of doing.”
“Yes. That’s the plan.” She stared at me a long beat and was about to say something then stopped when the car parked in front of her apartment. “I had a good time. Thanks.”
“Yeah, same.” I waved.
Ross opened her door. She was out and inside her building before I could take my next breath. It was like she couldn’t wait to get away from me. But I knew better. She was developing feelings for me just as I was falling for her. Only, she was stronger and more sensible than me to put a stop to it immediately.
“Where to, boss?” Ross asked.
“Home. Just home.”
In my sanctuary, I could drown myself in booze and have a pity party for one.
I hated the thought of never seeing Cyndee again. Hated it more than anything, but I didn’t see a way for us to be together. I needed to be smart and let her go after next weekend.
I would let her go and then never think about her again.
11
Fabio
Event 3: Black Tie Gala
My sister had out done herself again. Every year she amazed me with her attention to detail. She always collected millions of dollars for her charity, Emerald City Women’s Shelter Organization.
Naturally, emerald was the main color, which worked perfectly with Christmas season.
“I can’t believe I’m here.” Cyndee leaned my way. “Our table was expensive, wasn’t it?”
I almost laughed. “Very. Would you like to dance.”
“Yes!” Her eyes shimmered like diamonds. She wore a one-of-a-kind Farina’s ball gown in silver.
I took her hand and led her to the dance floor. My God, I couldn’t take my eyes off her.
“When is dinner?” she asked.
“An hour or so.” I pulled her close and drank her. “The salon did a good job with your hair and makeup.”
