Page 62 of Perfume Girl

“You seem to have that level of passion for everything you do, Astor.”

“If I find a subject that interests me, I’m all in.”

“That’s commendable.”

Astor licked his bottom lip as he studied me. “You look pretty in that dress.”

“Targay,” I twisted the name of the store. “Target,” I added on his confusion.

“Green suits you.” He turned to peer back at Damien. “Was he polite?”

“Yes. The rudest thing he’s ever done is fuck the weather girl.”

“Ah.”

“Apparently, the best revenge in circumstances like this is to double down on the yoga and get skinny.” I let out a sigh. “Only I like cheese and olives.”

“Looks good on you.”

“Please.”

He glanced over his shoulder at the couple. “Rescuing you from them is me making it up to you.”

“You mean for what we did in that hotel room?”

His gaze shot to mine. “I was referring to the unexpected boat trip to Cuba, which got us there.”

“Well, we both know you have perfect timing. Thank you for saving me.” I turned to leave.

“Have dinner with me.”

I took a moment to study him. “Why?”

He shrugged. “We can discuss our mutual project. That’s all. Nothing more complicated than that.”

I handed him my drink. “You have my number.”

“Raquel.” He came closer. “I appreciate your discretion about the other night.”

“And I yours.”

“Of course.”

“Are you feeling better now?” He nodded toward Damien.

“Not really.”

“What can I do to change that?”

I mulled his question over for a few seconds. “Kiss my cheek.”

“You want to make him jealous?”

I rested my fingertip on my cheekbone and gave him a cute smile. “Let’s do it.”

Astor lowered his gaze. “And here I was assuming you’d fallen hard for me.”

“I’m far too sensible for that, Mr. Beauregard.”