Page 28 of Enemies to French Kisses
She’s fishing.
“A serious kind of person.” Lame response, but it might do the job.
Charlotte scoffs. “You with aseriousperson? Hardly seems your type, or rather, you’re not exactly the type for a serious person.”
“What’s that supposed to mean?”
“Well, should your circumstances change, as they tend to do with you, let me know. I might still be available if you need my company, but I can’t promise anything.” She stands from the sofa. “I’ll take my coat now, I don’t want to keep my evening plans waiting, though I did want to offer you this opportunity before you made a terrible mistake.”
Breathe through it. Just breathe.
I drop her coat over her arm, knowing she’s waiting for me to hold it out for her. She won’t get that satisfaction from me tonight. It’s a small win, but it’s mine.
“See you at the party,mon chéri.” She kisses my left cheek and then my right, her movements more wooden than genuine. Charlotte has not changed.
My date for the engagement party. I don’t know what gets into me that I can never find the right words when Laura is in front of me. Maybe because I was trying to do it at the office. There’s no room for romance when surrounded by Innov’ Biotech staff and equipment prototypes.
That’s it. I have to get her to a place where there is no choice but to be immersed in the emotion of the moment.
And I know just the place. I dial her number before I have a chance to second guess myself.
“Laura, it’s Marc.”
“I know that.”
“I have to see you tonight.”
“Why? It’s our last day off before things are likely to get all kinds of intense again.”
“Because…” I’m not ready. I have no words again. Why does this happen?
She saves me. “Is it for work?”
“Yes, work. Very important. Important, uh, people.” It’s only half a lie. There will be important people at this party.
She sighs, her voice tense. “I can’t get to the office now.”
“Not necessary to go to the office. In fact, I’m already out so it’s best we meet in the middle. You know Sacre Coeur?” I cringe. She’s going to see right through me before I have a chance to make my case.
“Do I know Sacre Coeur?”
“It’s the church on the hill.”
“And here I was thinking it was a fancy name for a square dancing joint.”
“Be there in one hour. I’ll explain everything.”
“I have plans!"
“This will be brief enough, you can continue your plans after if you wish. What I have to say will be worth the wait.”
“In an hour?”
“Sacre Coeur, one hour, and be on your best behavior.” I wink like an idiot since she can’t see me, and I hang up quick. No more protestations, no more excuses—and I mean for myself. With the confidence of Sacre Coeur behind me, I know I’ll have exactly the right thing to say to her.
CHAPTER11
Laura
