Page 65 of True Colors

“I know, and I’ll talk to him about his behavior.” I think I’m pulling off the serious businessman voice. “I…just need a word with Anouk.” I even manage a tight smile.

Vijay studies me for a beat, then nods and leaves.

The door clicks shut.

“Anouk.”

She looks up at me, lips parting slightly as she wets them. I have to curl my hands into fists to keep from touching her.

“I…I have a question.”

Smooth, Luther, real smooth!

“O-okay.”

I draw in a breath. “Do you like the opera?”

Her eyes widen. “I h-have n-never been.”

“Would you like to go?” The words come out fast. “I mean—would you like to go to the opera with me?”

She tilts her head, processing. “The opera?”

“Yes.” My heart is beating hard enough that I’m shocked she can’t hear it. “La Traviata. Tomorrow night.”

Her lips part again. “T-tomorrow?”

“I have tickets,” I add quickly. Box seats. My parents’. Something I’ve only ever used for clients and board members. Never for someone I actually care about.

She hesitates, and the pause stretches just long enough for doubt to creep in. I’ve never been uncertain, and I know that’s because I never gave two shits if a woman turned me down.

I do now.

She smiles. “I’d l-like that.”

Relief hits me so fast it’s almost dizzying.

“I’ll pick you up at seven tomorrow,” I say through the tightness in my throat.

She nods, still smiling, and for a second, neither of us moves. The space between us feels charged, tight—a wire pulled too far.

When she turns to leave, her hand brushes mine.

Deliberately.

My breath catches.

Tomorrow night.

I don’t know if I’ll kiss her again when I drop her off.

I don’t know if I’ll be able to stop myself if I do.

All I know is that I’ve never wanted anyone the way I want Anouk Starling.

“Ria, you just called me three times in two minutes,” I growl.

“That’s because you’ve gone radio silent on me again.”