‘So I take it that you have a plan for this evening,’ he said.
‘I do. Tonight we will focus solely on sexual attraction.’
Alexander gazed at her. ‘Will we?’
‘Yes.’ She nodded in her most businesslike and professional manner. ‘It’s not the be all and end all of a successful relationship but it’s definitely important, wouldn’t you say?’
He didn’t take his eyes off her. ‘Absolutely.’
‘And we already know from your date with Cathy that it’s important for you be attracted to someone. You told me that you prefer sleek blondes…’
‘No.’
Slightly confused, Mallory squinted at him. ‘You’re not attracted to blondes?’
‘It was Nicholas who said I preferred blondes, not me.’ Alexander’s tone was a tad smug. His eyes roved across her face. ‘Truthfully, my preferences are more … eclectic.’
‘That’s not very helpful.’
He shrugged. ‘What’s your type, Mallory?’ he enquired. ‘Who are you attracted to?’
‘This isn’t about me. I’m not looking for a mate.’
‘Humour me. Would you be interested in a relationship with a werewolf?’
Exasperated, she sighed. ‘If this is another dig at Liam Ferguson?—’
A deep growl rumbled from Alexander’s chest. ‘I’m not talking about Liam bloody Ferguson. I want to know about you. Are you attracted to werewolves?’
Mallory felt inexplicably flustered. ‘Stop putting me under a microscope. This is nothing to do with me!’
‘It’s everything to do with you.’
‘What does that mean?’
Something passed across his face that Mallory was still trying to decipher when he replied. ‘This is your operation. You’re in charge. That’s all.’
She nodded vigorously, still confused. ‘Yes, I’m in charge – and I’m not talking about myself. We’re looking for a partner foryou, not me.’ She looked at the street. ‘We both need to know what sort of woman really floats your boat, Alexander. There’s a blonde druid to your left. What about her?’
‘Are you going to make me talk to her?’
‘No, this is purely window shopping.’
‘Alright.’ He moved his head and glanced at the druid. ‘She’s beautiful.’ Mallory released a breath. ‘But I’m not attracted to her.’
‘Is there a reason why?’
‘Not that I can put into words.’
Fair enough. Sensing she wouldn’t get any more detail, Mallory looked past the blonde. ‘How about the raven-haired witch passing the karaoke bar? The one who’s laughing?’
Alexander followed her gaze. ‘She looks like a lot of fun. But no.’
‘Not at all?’
He shrugged.
‘Redhead,’ Mallory said. ‘Twelve o’clock. She’s a werewolf, right?’
