‘No. Because their ceramics were characterised by linear patterns. Look—’ She took his arm and drew him closer to the glass. ‘Spirals, crosses, triangles, curved lines—’ She talked to him about each one and he listened carefully before strolling further along the glass display cabinet.
‘This one has a bird.’
‘Naturalistic designs were characteristic of the Middle Minoan period. The sequencing of ceramic styles has helped archaeologists define the three phases of Minoan culture.’
He stared down in her eyes. ‘Fascinating.’
Her heart bumped hard against her chest and as the curator moved away to answer questions from the press she stepped closer to him. ‘You’re not really fascinated, are you?’
‘I am.’ His eyes dropped to her mouth with blatant interest. ‘But I think it might be because you’re the one saying it. I love the way you get excited about things that put other people to sleep, and your mouth looks cute when you say “Minoan”. It makes you pout.’
She tried not to laugh. ‘You’re impossible. To you it’s an old pot, but it can have tremendous significance. Ceramics help archaeologists establish settlement and trading patterns. We can reconstruct human activity based on the distribution of pottery. It gives us an idea of population size and social complexity. Why are you donating so much money to the museum if it isn’t an interest of yours?’
‘Because I’m interested in preserving Greek culture. I donate the money. It’s up to them to decide how to use it. I don’t micromanage and gifts don’t come with strings.’
‘Why didn’t you insist that it was called “The Zervakis Wing” or something? Most benefactors want their name in the title.’
‘It’s about preserving history, not about advertising my name.’ His eyes gleamed. ‘And ZervaCo is a modern, forward-thinking company at the cutting edge of technology development. I don’t want the name associated with a museum.’
‘You’re joking.’
‘Yes, I’m joking.’ His smile faded as Spy and Brittany joined them.
‘They’re good friends of mine,’ Lily said quickly, ‘so you can switch off the full-wattage intimidation.’
‘If you’re sure.’ He introduced himself to both of them and chatted easily with Spy while Brittany pulled Lily to one side.
‘I don’t even know where to start with my questions.’
‘Probably just as well because I wouldn’t know where to start with my answers.’
‘I’m guessing he’s the owner of Villa You-Have-to-be-Kidding-Me.’
‘He is.’
‘I’m not going to ask,’ Brittany muttered and then grinned. ‘Oh hell, yes I am. I’m asking. What happened? He found you in the cellar fighting off the ugly sisters and decided to bring you to the ball?’
‘Close. He found me on the floor of his bathroom where I’d been attacked and left for dead by his power shower. After I broke up his relationship, he needed a replacement and I was the only person around.’
Brittany started to laugh. ‘You were left for dead by his power shower?’
‘You said you wouldn’t ask.’
‘These things only ever happen to you, Lily.’
‘I am aware of that. I am really not good with technology.’
‘Maybe not, but you know how to pick your rebound guy. He is spectacular. And you look stunning.’ Brittany’s curious gaze slid over her from head to foot. ‘It’s a step up from dusty shorts and hiking boots.’
Lily frowned. ‘He isn’t my rebound guy.’
‘Why not? He is smoking hot. And there’s something about him.’ Her friend narrowed her eyes as she scanned Nik’s broad shoulders and powerful frame. ‘A suggestion of the uncivilised under the civilised, if you know what I mean.’ Brittany put her hand on her arm and her voice was suddenly serious. ‘Be careful.’
‘Why would I need to be careful? I’m never setting foot in his shower again, if that’s what you mean.’
‘It isn’t what I mean. That man is not tame.’
‘He’s surprisingly amusing company.’