“Hardly,” I scoff. “I have no reason to trust you.”
“Well, trust me anyways.”
“And end up dissected at the end of this alley? I don’t think so.”
Andrew’s lips part as he stares at me in disbelief, and the next second he’s shaking with laughter, his entire body convulsing.
Fucking hell. Am I supposed to find him adorable? Shouldn’t I be mad at him or something? I want to slap myself for feeling so bubbly from a mere laugh.
“Or you could just tell me where we’re headed.”
A conflicted look shines over his expression, then he smirks. “I can’t believe you’re doubting my sincerity and trustworthiness. It deeply saddens me, you know?”
I roll my eyes and smile. “Well do forgive me,good sir. Now tell me, before I decide to bolt the other way.”
“I’ll chase you down the street like a dog if you run.” Mischief glints in his eyes, making me wonder whether he’s serious or just messing with me. “For you, I don’t mind making a fool of myself.”
My lips curl up, and I slide my hand in his, surprising both of us. Beaming, Andrew guides us down a flight of stairs leading to an onyx door above which a red neon sign glows brightly.
I almost laugh at the words on the sign.
Paradise.
That cheeky little shit.
“You’re going to love this place.” Pushing the door open, he holds it for me. “It’s one of my favorite spots in the city.”
My lips part at the sight of a dazzling jazz bar. The walls are ornate with vintage paintings and round tables are dressed in silk sheets. In every corner, I find myself drowning in shades of maroon and amber, reminding me of an autumn sunset. I can hardly keep myself from smiling at the sight of chandeliers hanging from the ceiling.
Just when I think I couldn’t be more amazed, I spot a grandiose piano at the back of the room, and a sudden laugh slips out of me. Iturn to gape at Andrew, and catch him already watching me with a gentle smile, his eyes gleaming with what I assume is pride.
“You like it.” His thumb strokes my knuckles, and he swiftly tugs me further inside, sitting me down at a table. “I knew you would.”
“How?” My voice is breathless, and I gawk at the sweetness in his expression when he laughs. “You don’t even know me enough to claim that. How did you know I love jazz?”
“What can I say? I’m full of surprises.” Grinning, he lifts a hand, gesturing for an older man in a bartender’s uniform to come over. “Meet Charles Davis. He’s the owner of the bar, and a close friend.”
Charles reaches for my hand and firmly shakes it, offering me a warm smile that reminds me of my late father. “It’s a pleasure to finally meet you.”
Finally?
“The pleasure is mine,” I say, smiling politely, and glance at the devious man sitting opposite me.
“I’m at your disposal, so feel free to make any requests. It’s an honor to have such esteemed guests.”
Andrew laughs at his words before focusing his attention back on me while Charles waddles back behind the bar.
“I’m so…confused.”
He tilts his head coyly. “About what?”
I watch him attentively, allowing my eyes to drift over his casual button up and wavy brown hair. “Firstly, about the reason you brought me here for, but also because Mr. Davis seems to know me somehow. I don’t recall ever coming here, though. Care to explain?”
A soft rumble of laughter escapes him. “Haven’t I made it clear that I’m courting you? I hardly know how to hide my affection for the one I like. So, I might’ve mentioned you to anyone who would listen.”
“You’re crazy.”
“About you.”
