Thirst (The Calvettis of New York 1)

“Gina,” he says when she reaches us. “What are you doing here?”

“You said you might be at the restaurant around six, so I thought I’d meet you there as a surprise.” She looks me over, even though her words are meant just for him. “You didn’t show up and since there was no answer when I called you, I came to drag you down there.”

“I have plans.” His hand tightens on the handle of my suitcase.

“Who’s your friend?” There’s a surprising softness in her tone.

Obviously, she doesn’t see me as a threat. Women like her rarely do. She’s tall, slim and has the bone structure of a supermodel. This woman is breathtakingly beautiful.

“Dexie Walsh.” He smiles when he looks at me. “I’d like you to meet...”

“Gina.” Her arms are around me before I can think. “I’m Rocco’s cousin.”

Cousin?

An unexpected smile blooms deep inside of me.

She steps back from our embrace. “I love your hair. Pink streaks. It all makes sense now.”

“What makes sense?” My gaze volleys between her and Rocco.

“Nothing.” Rocco rubs his hand over his jaw. “Dexie and I are going to dinner. I’ll catch up with you another time, Gina.”

The pasted smile on her face doesn’t veil the disappointment in her eyes. Her voice comes out soft. “Of course, Rocco. Maybe tomorrow?”

She needs him. I need time to breathe and think.

“I have plans,” I say, even though I don’t usually consider a bath a plan, but tonight I need it more than I need anything.

Bubbles, candlelight and pizza ordered in will feed my soul and give me a clearer perspective.

“You do?” Rocco’s brow arches.

I nod. “I should get going. Thank you for the shared ride back from the meeting.”

“The meeting?” Gina’s attention turns to her cousin. “What meeting?”

Rocco sighs. “I had a pitch session this afternoon. Dexie is looking for an investor for her handbag company.”

“You’re going to be business partners?” The shock in Gina’s tone dwarfs the surprised expression on her face.

“Maybe,” I answer quietly. “I have more than one offer on the table.”

Rocco’s gaze catches mine. “You’ll be accepting mine. I can offer you much more than Rhoda can.”

I should have a witty response to toss back at him, but the man is melting me from the inside out with the intenseness of his blue eyes.

“Thank you again.” I reach for the handle of the suitcase. “I hope you two enjoy your dinner.”

“It was good meeting you.” Gina’s hand lands on my shoulder. “You’re sure you can’t join us?”

I shake my head. “I can’t.”

“I’ll be in touch.” Rocco’s fingers linger on mine as I tighten my grip on the padded metal handle.

“I look forward to talking about my business,” I say quietly.

He leans closer, sending my heartbeat racing. “Your business will be just one of the topics we discuss.”