Page 53 of Enchanted Hero
“But you haven’t had dinner yet. We had a deal.”
“That was before.”
“Before what?”
Before she wondered who he really was. Before it was possible he had some connection to a supernatural creature.Before he could be a supernatural creature.
“I wanted to ask about the relics.”
His words brought stark relief, and an end to dangerous topics. She relaxed as he questioned her about the company and its products. He seemed particularly interested in where she had gotten a few pieces, and she answered honestly. Afterwards they discussed general business matters. Time flowed like the wine of earlier, and soon a melodic ringing intruded into their conversation.
“Time for dinner.” Alexander rose and helped her to her feet. She swayed slightly – the alcohol was still affecting her, although its effects had lessened somewhat. He brought her to a candlelit table with plush velvet chairs. “Be right back.”
Without his distracting presence, uncertainties – and suspicions – returned. Could Alexander be more than he seemed, more thanhuman? Yet how could it be? He was a powerful man, but he was just a man. Anything else was preposterous.
Yet she’d already seen the impossible.
Alexander returned with two gleaming silver platters. He placed them on the table, then lifted the tops to reveal plates of steaming baked ziti covered in hearty tomato sauce and melted mozzarella. The scent of oregano and fresh cheese filled the air, as he lowered a basket of crusty garlic bread.
Her mouth watered at the savory fare. “I skipped lunch, which is probably why the alcohol is hitting me so hard.”
He frowned. “You shouldn’t skip meals.”
“Yes, sir.” She made a mock salute. His stern look made her giggle.
He softened. “Maybe food will lighten the effects of the alcohol.” He poured them glasses of water from a silver pitcher. Like a gentleman, he waited until she picked up her fork before he did the same.
She scooped up a bite. “Mmm.” The flavor of fresh tomatoes and mozzarella burst into her mouth, savory, hot and delicious, spices blended together in perfect harmony. Next, she bit into the steaming garlic bread. Crisp on the outside, hot buttery goodness on the inside, it was divine.
“I take it you like it?” Alexander smiled.
Alcohol definitely bit into your most refined manners, but he didn’t seem to care. She picked up the napkin and wiped her mouth. “Yes, thank you. This is wonderful.”
“I’m glad you like it. My chef is magic with food.”
For a few minutes, they ate in blissful silence. Even without conversation, the mood was comfortable, calm andperfect. She was more relaxed – and less inebriated – when they finished.
He lowered his napkin and regarded her. “Tell me about yourself.”
Everleigh hesitated. It was difficult enough discussing business matters with the man who had stolen her company. Opening up about her life seemed far too personal. “To be honest, most of my time is spent on New Age Treasures.”
“Breaking and entering and that sort of thing?” he teased.
She flashed a small smile. “No, that was a special occasion. Clearly, you inspire me to break the law.”
He winked. “I get that a lot.”
“I bet you do,” she bantered, succumbing to a wider grin. “I devote a lot of time to selecting products. Of course, my favorite part is searching for one-of-a-kind treasures. I find it so fascinating.”
“Why?” He seemed genuinely curious, as he interlocked his fingers. “You don’t even know if they are genuine.”
She looked out at the stars twinkling over the water. “It reminds me there are still mysteries out there, and so much more to this world than obvious. Just maybe there is some magic.”
“Do you truly think so?” he asked softly.
“I know you don’t believe in that stuff, but what happened with the tornado convinced me.”
“What about hobbies?” He swiftly changed the subject. “What do you like to do, besides breaking the law?”
