‘I like petunias. They’re simple, and they don’t pretend to be what they’re not.’
‘Yes, certainly. Quite charming. Perhaps backed with a bank of lilies. As to color . . .’
‘Do you carry Immortal Blossoms?’ she asked on impulse.
‘Immortals.’ Mark’s eyes brightened. ‘They’re quite a specialty item. Difficult to import, of course, but very hardy and spectacular in baskets. I have several simulations.’
‘We don’t want simulations,’ Eve reminded him.
‘I’m afraid they can only be exported in small amounts, and then only to licensed florists and horticulturists. And only for indoor use. As your ceremony is outdoors—’
‘Do you sell many?’
‘Very rarely, and only to other licensed horticulture experts. I do have something just as lovely—’
‘You have records of those sales? Can you get me a list of names? You’re on the net for world delivery, aren’t you?’
‘Naturally, but—’
‘I need to know everyone who ordered Immortals during the past two years.’
When Mark sent him a baffled look, Roarke ran his tongue around his teeth. ‘My fiancee is an avid gardener.’
‘Yes, I see. It may take a few moments to access. You want everyone.’
‘Everyone who placed an order to the Eden Colony for Immortals during the last two years. You can start with the States.’
‘If you’ll just wait then, I’ll see what I can do.’
‘I like the arbor idea,’ Eve announced, springing up when Mark left them. ‘Don’t you?’
Roarke rose, put his hands on her shoulders. ‘Why don’t you let me handle the floral arrangements? I’ll surprise you.’
‘I’ll owe you one.’
‘Indeed you will. You can start paying me back by remembering we’re attending Leonardo’s showing on Friday.’
‘I knew that.’
‘And by remembering to access your three weeks’ leave for our honeymoon.’
‘I thought we said two.’
‘We did. Now you owe me one. Would you like to tell me why you have this sudden fascination with a flower from the Eden Colony? Or do I just assume that you found your unknown.’
‘It’s the nectar. It does a lot to tie the three homicides together. If I can just get a break.’
‘I hope this is what you’re looking for.’ Mark came back in with a sheet of paper. ‘It wasn’t as difficult as I’d feared. There haven’t been many orders for Immortals. Most importers are satisfied with simulations. There are a few problems with the actual specimen.’
‘Thank you.’ Eve took the page, skimmed down the list. ‘Gotcha,’ she murmured then whirled to Roarke. ‘I have to go. Buy lots of flowers, boatloads of flowers. Don’t forget the petunias.’ She charged out, pulling her communicator. ‘Peabody.’
‘But - but the bouquet. The bridal bouquet.’ Confused, Mark turned to Roarke. ‘She hasn’t chosen.’
Roarke watched her fly out. ‘I know what she likes,’ he said. ‘Often better than she does.’
Chapter Fifteen
‘Nice to have you back, Mr. Redford.’