Page 7 of Bold Encounter
Genevieve swooned at his gentlemanly gesture.She linked arms with him, feeling like she'd been transported back to an earlier era.He led her to the park, where they chatted about the highlights of the wedding and reception.
Abe shared more about his friendship with Gabriel and their time together in the NOPD.He told a few stories, and said that they continued to work together."As a detective, I can hire Gabriel as a consultant.That way he can use his skills to help with a case."
Hanging out took on a new meaning with Abe.He was easy to be with, and so damn sexy.If only he'd ask her out on a real date, but he hadn't yet.
Genevieve motioned toward a park bench."Let's sit here."
He sat beside her."Can I ask you a question?"
"Sure."
"What were the dead flowers about?"
"I have a guess," Genevieve said, then slipped her jacket off to show a tattoo on her right shoulder.It was an image of small roses with pedals cascading down her arm.
"What's the meaning?"
"Love and loss," Genevieve said."My first love broke my heart.I was only twenty at the time and believed that we'd marry."She looked at Abe."I got the tattoo as a reminder of that loss."
"Does Jason know about that?"
"Sure, he asked about the tattoo.I suppose dropping a bunch of dead roses at my feet was meant to rub it in."
"Why would he want to do that?"
Genevieve put her jacket back on."Only he knows that.He was disgruntled when I left the band.But I don't understand why he's reappeared now."
"Maybe your sister's wedding?"
"I thought of that too," Genevieve said."That's spooky if it's true.Brooke's wedding was only for close friends and family.How did he know about the event and reception?"
Abe hesitated."Perhaps he's been watching you."
That was a chilling thought.Genevieve expelled a breath then stood."Shall we grab a hot dog at that kiosk?I'm hungry.I was too busy socializing to eat much at the reception."
Abe escorted her to the kiosk and bought the hot dogs.The conversation drifted to food in New Orleans and other casual topics.After eating, she walked to his police car, and he drove her home.Politely, he walked her to the door.
There was no mention of Jason or the unsettling encounter.But Abe said, "Do you still have my card?"
Genevieve nodded.
"Text if you need anything."He smiled, but his expression showed concern.Then he said, "I enjoyed hanging out with you.May I give you a call?"
Genevieve had no objection.She wondered if he was going to call for a date or because he was worried about her.He was so polite, yetsodamn sexy.
*****
Genevieve sprawled on her sofa, clutching the postcard from Brooke.The image showed a pristine beach with azure waters.Wish you were here!Brooke wrote.Gabriel and I are having the time of our lives.The resort is gorgeous, and the food is divine.
Genevieve smiled and propped the card on her coffee table.She doubted that a trip to the Bahamas was in her own future, but she could enjoy looking at it.At least one of them had found happiness.
She glanced at her phone again, but there were no messages.A week had passed since the wedding and Abe had asked for her number, yet still no call.It was best not to think about him, but that wasn't easy.
She had a performance that night and needed to focus.Her phone buzzed.It was Cadie, the piano player in her band—but more importantly, her best friend."Are we still on for coffee before tonight's gig?"
"I wouldn't miss it.See you at Café Noir in an hour."
Genevieve dressed quickly in black jeans and a fitted top.She grabbed a light jacket, since it was cool in the evenings.
