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“Older? Why would you want her to be older?”
He shrugged. “She hasn’t had a lot of life experience. There’s not as much to talk about with younger women. But then again, if they’re beautiful, I guess you don’t need to talk. Still, age has some advantages… But other than that, she’s really perfect.”
Anne worried a little. She’d thought Ellen was just the right age. Had she been off on her calculations? But he still seemed to like her.
“And it’s too bad she hasn’t had children.”
“What? I thought you’d want someone who hasn’t been married before.”
“I guess that’d be nice—divorce can be so messy. But women who haven’t had children usually want to start a family after they get married. I just don’t know if I want to do that at my age. I could change my mind I guess, or maybe Ellen might change her mind. Maybe she’d be happy without children. But really, other than that, she’s perfect.”
Anne racked her brain. Had Ellen said whether she wanted children? Probably not right away, but she was bound to want children someday. How old would Steven be by that time? Or would he insist she never have children?
“And I’m sure she won’t mind giving up her career.”
“What?”
“You know, if we were to stay together, I’d want her to be available to travel with me. I travel all over the world. I wouldn’t want a wife who has a job that ties her to the city. But Ellen’s really perfect. I admit I underestimated you. I’m sorry I gave you and Gram such a hard time.”
“Sure. No problem…” Would Ellen want to give up acting? She’d barely even gotten started. If she agreed to give up her career now, would she might resent Steven for the rest of their marriage.
I’ve made a terrible mistake!
“… Anne. Did you hear me?”
“I’m sorry. What did you say?”
“I asked you where you’re going with Henri on Friday.”
“What? How did you—did I say I was going out with Henri on Friday?”
“You must’ve mentioned it. But you didn’t say where you were going.”
“I… I don’t know. Just dinner, I guess.”
“Dinner and then coffee upstairs?”
The blood rushed to her face. “Just dinner.”
“No coffee?” he teased.
Two could play that game.
“As a matter of fact. I think we might have coffee after all. I’ve got some new flavors I’d like to try. Some of them sound sooooo delicious. You know, the kind that makes your mouth water just thinking about them. Mmmmm! I just love experimenting with something new. I’ll bet Henri has a lot I’ve never sampled before. I’m glad you suggested it. I’m sure Henri will be grateful as well.”
“You win.” Steven’s eyes narrowed to slits. “I don’t really want you to have coffee with Henri. Or dinner either, for that matter. I was only trying to be a good sport about it. And it turns out I’m not a very good sport after all.”
Rayna called her over when she came home from work. “Hey Anne. How was work today?”
“Just routine. How about you? You and Antonio seem to be doing well.”
“I’ve always heard Italians were hot-tempered, but Antonio is hot-blooded instead.” She giggled. “But he’s also really romantic. He took me on a great picnic in Central Park. And he’s nothing like Eddie.”
“I’ve got the magic touch,” Anne bragged. “I’ve got a great track record. Maybe I should start a matchmaking website.”
“Maybe so. What are you up to tonight? Big plans?”
“I think I’m going for a run right now. I’m just planning to eat in the apartment. You could join me if you want.”
