Page 49 of Seasons of Sin

“Have you spoken to him?” Rocco prompted, though of course he knew she hadn’t.

“Not since I interrupted him on a date with some sexy supermodel.” The response was tart and she couldn’t find it in her heart to care.

Rocco’s laugh surprised her. “Ah, that would be Cassandra.”

“Would it?”

“They’re old friends.”

“I see.”

Rocco shrugged and Saphire took it as an escape opportunity. “I should keep moving.”

“Do you have time for a dance?”

She shook her head. “Sorry. My boss is sick so I’m standing in for her.”

He nodded slowly, speculation in his expression. “Hope Renewed is a great charity. I’m impressed.”

“I’ve done volunteer work for them for years. A job opened up that was more permanent and I thought it was time I do something for myself, you know?”

“Of course,” he agreed. “And your husband? Does he support you in this?”

She narrowed her eyes. “You mean your spy hasn’t fed you that information? I’m getting divorced.”

He laughed once more. “Iamsorry,” he lifted his hands to reinforce the apology. “Thaddeus is a valued friend. A very wealthy friend who is often prey to … well. You can imagine. Having just buried Aristotle I was concerned his judgment might have been lacking. I felt it was prudent to look out for his best interests.”

“You don’t think he can do that himself?”

“Hard to say,” he murmured.

“Not for me. I think he’s perfectly capable of managing his own affairs.”

“Interesting choice of word,” he said with a wry smile.

Saphire felt her stomach swirl. “I really have to get back to work.”

“Have a drink with me later,” he invited.

Saphire shook her head. “I’ve got a heap to do here. I’m sorry.”

“Don’t be. I’m sure we’ll catch up again in the future.”

Saphire shrugged. “Maybe.”

“Are you in Rome permanently?”

“Yes. No. I don’t know. I’m here for at least six months. That’s where the position is.” She cleared her throat and at his blank look clarified: “The position I applied for. It’s here. In Rome.”

“I see.” He reached into the breast pocket of his jacket and pulled out a crisp white business card. “I’m in Rome also. This is my card. If you need anything, please do call.”

She furrowed her brow. “I don’t mean to be rude but you’re probably the last person I’d ever call.”

His laugh was a deep rumble. “Oh, really? And why is that?”

“Well,” she lifted her finger and tapped it against the opposite digit. “Let’s see. You’re Thaddeus’s friend, for a start off, and I’d rather forget everything I ever had to do with him.” She swallowed past the pain. “And you’re super sneaky! You spied on me and tried to ruin everything between us.”

“I already told you …”