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“Yes, ma ‘am. Here’s some chips and salsa in the meantime,” the young man said, his eyes never leaving her face.
“I’m surprised you selected this restaurant.” She absently took a chip, breaking apart small pieces and nibbling as she studied his expression. Her mystery man had yet to offer his name. What she’d learned about him had been on the five-minute ride. He appreciated classical music, rock and roll and certainly had an affinity for luxury cars. He was also sought after, given the number of unanswered phone calls he’d received during the short period of time.
“You don’t think I enjoy cheap food, watered down liquor and stale chips?” His eyes flashed as he grinned.
Even in the dim lighting, his amazing blue eyes penetrated the shadows. “Very funny. Did you somehow manage to find out that Mexican is my favorite? Did someone tell you? Or better yet, were you looking in my pantry?”
He raised a single eyebrow. “I don’t spy. I pay attention. I listen. I observe. I’m very good at learning about people inside and out.”
“What does your amazing talent tell you about me?”
“Merely what I’ve told you before. You’re a woman hiding behind a mask, looking for the right companion to allow you to be yourself.”
Destiny nodded. “I won’t disagree. I’ve looked. I’ve given up looking.”
“Very sad. You’re a treasure, a gift.”
“Thank you for the compliments.” She dissected his features as well as his mannerisms. “Where are you from?”
“Does it matter?” He gave her a half smile.
She sat back and sighed. “No. Not in the least. What does matter is your name. You have me at a disadvantage.”
Hesitating, his eyes darted back and forth as if determining whether he could trust her. “Chris.”
“Chris. Suits you. Now why did you ask me to lunch again?”
“Such a formidable and untrustworthy woman,” he whispered as he cocked his head.
This time the look was seductive, possessive. She swallowed and waited until the waiter had delivered their drinks. “Nature of my profession.”
“Yes. I can understand. May I order for us?” Chris’ voice was soft, the tone smooth as velvet.
Her mouth dry, Destiny reached for her water glass. “Be my guest.” What was he attempting to do, impress or dominate? She wasn’t surprised when he ordered in Spanish, the words fluent, silky. She wanted to ask what he’d selected, but a part of her knew better. He was taking control.
“Very good, sir.” The waiter lowered his head and moved away.
“Now, where were we?” Chris fingered the rim of his glass.
Destiny watched the slight movement, mesmerized by the length of his fingers and his exotic scent. She managed to take a sip of her wine before the beads of perspiration oozed down her cheeks. “You were telling me all about myself.”
“Mmmm… Perhaps I will in time. Today was a chance for you to learn that I’m not a monster.”
“And why is that important to you?”
“Because, sweet Destiny, one day you’re going to belong to me.”
The words were said with confidence instead of arrogance. He was certain of his statement, as if he’d ordered her from a fashionable store. “You’re so certain.”
“I’m never wrong.”
She should be incensed, enraged by his words, let alone his bravado, but she was intrigued. She was also more than curious about the man hiding behind his own mask, one made of steel. “I guess we will see.” She held up her glass.
“Absolutely.” His eyes never left hers as he sipped his drink.
A chill swept through her, one of anticipation. Excitement.
He reached out his hand, the action slow and methodical.
