“I am.”
“Fine, if I’m being honest, the garlic bread and cannoli will be store bought. And the salad will probably come from a bag, but the carbonara will be homemade.”
“It still sounds good,” she said.
“Good. Do you want red or white wine?”
“Surprise me. I like both.”
He chuckled. “But no pressure, right?”
“Right.”
“What time should I be at your place?”
“I should be home by six. I’m planning to get out of here by five-thirty, no matter what happens.”
“Then, I’ll see you at six.” He paused. “Should I bring my toothbrush?”
“Is that thing about vampires and garlic true because—”
He started laughing. “No, that’s my roundabout way of asking if I can stay the night.”
“I know, I was giving you a hard time.” Astra hesitated. She wasn’t used to having anyone in her space, but she liked the idea of sleeping cuddled up next to him like she had last night. “Bring your toothbrush.”
“Are you sure? I mean, there’s no pressure. Just because I asked doesn’t mean you have to say yes.”
“I know that,” she said. “I want you to stay.”
“Then, it’s settled. I’ll see you at six.”
“See you then.”
She was still smiling when she disconnected.
“You look happy.”
Astra straightened and looked toward her open office door. Her mother stood there, her shoulder leaning against the jamb.
“Who was that on the phone?” she asked, coming inside.
“A friend,” Astra answered.
Her mother laughed as she sat down in the same chair Sylvie chose earlier. Those two were more alike than they would ever be willing to admit. Not that she would risk life and limb by telling them that.
“It sounded like more than a friend.”
Astra’s face went hot, then cold. “He’s someone I started seeing recently.”
Her mother’s brows rose. “Oh, really? Do I know him? Or his family?”
She shook her head. “No, I met him through the dating service.”
“Well, when do we get to meet him?”
Astra fought back the urge to swallow hard. Her mother was a bloodhound when it came to ferreting out information. “Not for a while. We’ve only been seeing each other a few weeks and I’m not sure how it will go.”
“All right.” Her mother got back to her feet and walked toward the door. She paused when she reached it. “You haven’t smiled like that in a long time. I’m glad you’ve finally met someone who makes you happy.”
