It wasn’t, but I knew he was just saying that to get him to leave. I noticed he had started drinking tea instead whenever he was around me.
Dr. Seo winked at me before getting up. “I hope to see you around more, Ms. Poe.”
“I’m working here, so I’m sure we will meet again.”
He nodded, patting Eli on the shoulder, much to Eli’s annoyance, before leaving.
“So, what were you and my mother talking about?”
“What was your bet against Dr. Seo?”
He licked his lips, swallowing before nodding. “Fine, it’s a draw.”
“How’s your day?” I asked, continuing to eat.
He shrugged. “Saved a few lives here, saved a few lives there—”
“Wow, I am surely in the presence of greatness. Should I bow?”
“If it pleases you.” He winked. “Your mural?”
“It’s good. Only planned to be gone for a few minutes, but people just keep popping up.”
“I know what you mean,” he said seriously.
I could feel something was off. He didn’t look happy, nor did he look like he wanted to tell me what was bothering him. “Eli, what is it?”
“This morning when I came back with Taigi, Sebastian was waiting in front of the building…with flowers.”
“White and red poppies?”
He nodded.
“I’m guessing you didn’t just walk past him?”
“Words were spoken.”
“Just words?”
Again, he nodded. “Though Taigi did piss on his shoes.”
“Oh, I love my dog.” I laughed, brushing my hair back. “He didn’t say anything to upset you, did he?”
“Not in the least.”
“Good, then if you aren’t worried about it, I’m not.” I stood, grabbing my tray. “I really should get back if I want to get to where I was hoping today. Dinner?”
“I’ll actually cook this time,” he replied, but before I could leave, he called out once more. “Guinevere?”
“Yes?”
“Three questions: do you like poppies?”
“Yes, they are my favorite flowers. Your second question?” I knew he was asking because of Sebastian.
“What’s your middle name? After all, thanks to my mom, you know mine.”
It seemed like a boring question, but I told him. “It’s Aurora. Guinevere Aurora Poe. And your last question?”