“Nice to meet you.” I shook his hand.
He sat sideways and slid his arm over the back of my chair. “Where are you from, Salina?”
I stiffened, glanced at his arm, and said, “I don't believe I gave you the honor of my first name, Mr. Breaux. Now, if you'd kindly remove your arm from my seat, I'd like to get back to my conversation with Jane here.”
Jane hooted in laughter, attracting the attention of the other guests, who were filling the seats. Even William, up near the podium, lifted his brows at his wife.
James wasn't fazed. He removed his arm and inclined his head. “My mistake, Ms. Haven. Forgive my impudence. I was hoping to get to know you better.”
“And I was hoping to buy some art. Goodnight, Mr. Breaux.”
“Goodnight, Ms. Haven.” He got up, still smiling, nodded at Jane, and moved a few seats down.
Jane pressed her lips together, then whispered, “I have never, in my life, seen a man handled so well. And James Breaux too. Do you know he's considered the most eligible bachelor in town?”
“Is he?” I scowled. “He seemed a little slimy to me. No offense. I hope he isn't a good friend of yours.”
“Breaux?” She laughed. “Absolutely not! I agree with you. He's slimy! Thank God you sent him on his way.”
I leaned in to whisper, “Not far enough. It's hard to be subtle with men.”
She was still giggling when her husband joined us and the auction began.
Chapter Thirteen
By the end of the evening, there was a group of rejected men eyeing me, and the Goldrings were twitterpated. Jane had even asked if I was more interested in women. I put that rumor to rest immediately.
“Girl!” I pushed at her shoulder. “I know you didn't just imply I'm a lesbian because I'm not interested in the selection here tonight. That's something one of them would say.” I nodded at the men.
“Oh!” Jane covered her mouth with her hand. “I'm so sorry, cherie! You're right. Frankly, I love seeing them put in their place. Look at them. Like a pack of dogs waiting for a bone to be thrown their way. Men who normally wouldn't spend more than a minute together are gathering to lick their wounds in unity.”
“I'm not throwing anything their way. As I said, I'm here for the art and to support a worthy charity. That's all. If I wanted a man, I'd find one who wasn't so wealthy.”
“Really?” Goldring asked, leaning toward me. “Why?”
“Because, no offense, wealthy men tend to rule the house.” I pointed at myself and added, “I rule. Always.”
“My wife rules my house.” He kissed Jane.
“That's right, sugah. And don't you forget it.” Jane stroked his cheek. Then she looked at me. “You just need to find the right man. You're obviously not impressed by money, but don't let the size of a man's wallet—large or small—blind you to his other attributes.”
“Fair enough.” I got my large wallet out. “Now, where do I pay for my painting?” I grinned. “I feel as if I stole it!”
“You did indeed get a wonderful price. I suppose having mature taste can pay off.”
“Thank you again for inviting me. I'm so excited about hanging my painting in my new house. I know exactly where it's going.”
“Oh?” Jane asked.
“Yes, you should come see it. And by that, I mean come and see my house. I'd love to reciprocate the hospitality. Although, it won't be such a grand affair. Maybe some iced tea and cake?”
“I love iced tea and cake!” She clasped my hand. “Just give me an address and a date.”
I paid for my art, made plans with Ms. Jane, and headed off in my car, leaving my admirers staring after me on the steps like a bunch of sad puppies. I should have felt wonderful. The evening had been a success and putting those egotistical men in their place was a bonus. But something clawed at my chest. I couldn't go home. I needed . . . something. Food! That's what I needed. How could I forget that I could eat whatever I wanted, whenever I wanted?
I drove around until I spotted a restaurant that looked and smelled promising. I found Cleo's—a Mediterranean place open 24 hours. I scored a table—an achievement since the place was packed—and was soon groaning through a feast of shwarma, hummus, fresh pita, grilled steak, and baklava. The night was warm, so I left my jacket in the car. With my bare elbows braced on the table, I devoured the meal, enjoying every bite.
“Woohee, sugah! You can eat!”
