Page 61 of Pandora's Pleasure
“Want to go see a play this week?” I asked.
He dragged his eyes off an article. “Um…yes, when all of this is over.”
“Are you going to keep me hidden?” I pressed my lips together in embarrassment for asking the question.
“That was the plan.” He took a sip of coffee.
This was like being punished for something I’d not done.
Changing the subject, I said. “It’s like turning a tanker during a storm.”
Damien raised his head and gave me his full attention. “You mean the campaign?”
“Yes, you read these—” I rested a finger on an article. “You adjust your reaction by a fraction. Too much and you’re admitting truth in the situation. Not enough of a response—”
“Could leave fractures that become fissures later.”
“This article,” I said. “InThe Atlantic. The Senator is being accused of being out of touch. We’re too close to the election for articles like this to be ignored. The Senator needs to press home he cares about the small things.”
He gave a smile. “Valid observation.”
“I didn’t mean to offend you.”
“Well, coming from you it’s…insightful.”
“How do you mean?”
“When was the last time you went shopping for anything other than designer bags?”
“That’s unfair.”
“Go on, then, tell me the price of a gallon of milk.”
“I’ve been advised it’s a security risk.”
His brows narrowed. “To be amongst people?”
“When was the last time you went food shopping?”
“Yesterday.” He conceded with a nod. “I might have shaken a few hands while in Trader Joe’s.”
“Made it a thing,” I jested.
“I wore jeans and a baseball cap. Still…”
I’d undone the last few minutes of conversation—reminding Damien I was more out of touch than anyone.
“It’s not your fault, Pandora,” he said kindly. “You’re enlightened now. Once you wake up from the illusion of privilege you can choose to make a difference.”
“I’ve always wanted to make a difference.”
“I believe Salvatore Galante is bluffing.”
“About my father?” I hesitated, remembering the rule.
“Let’s continue to be seen in public.” He went back to reading a paper. “It’s perfectly reasonable for now.”
Reaching for my juice, I brought it to my lips, my heart soaring. Despite facing the impossible we were still an item, which meant there was a chance for my dad. Pushing that thought aside, studying the way Damien’s intelligent eyes scanned over the papers, I couldn’t help but be mesmerized by his staggering beauty.
