With a sigh, I glanced away from the couple. I checked the perimeter around the main entrance, looking for Cole. Then I took out my phone to see if I had messages
from him and discovered that Isabelle had sent me pictures of her new apartment last night. Oh, I was so jealous that I hadn’t been there to celebrate this milestone with her.
“Morning, doc.”
I startled, looking up. Cole stood before me. In the morning light, he looked even more gorgeous—all masculine and... charming. He was smiling widely, and just like that, I felt the corners of my mouth tip up, even though I’d been melancholic a few minutes ago. How could his mood influence me so easily?
“Hey! Was looking at some pics Isabelle sent me of her new apartment.”
“That’s right. My siblings were helping her move yesterday. Did you talk to her?”
“Yeah, on my way home yesterday. Can’t wait to be back in New York, help her out with things. It’s daunting to move to a new city.”
“She’s got my family, though. And you. So... brought her up to date?” He wiggled his eyebrows. This man!
“Yes. Told her about this guy I met last night. Very fun and willing to indulge my culinary wishes.”
“Sounds like you like him.”
I laughed, tilting my head playfully. “Just a little bit.”
“Poor schmuck. He’s got to up his game, doesn’t he?”
Hmm... that hadn’t been the answer I’d expected, but I suddenly wanted to know what that would entail.
“What’s with that smile?” he asked, eyes focused on me.
“Nothing you need to know.”
He took one step closer. “Tell. Me.”
Holy shit, had he meant to sound playful? Because it had come out all bossy. He was used to being in charge, to get everyone to do his bidding, that was for sure.
“Well, she did tell me about your nickname, and she wanted to know if you do it justice.”
“And what’s the verdict?”
I winked, suddenly feeling a little feisty. “I’ll reserve judgment until after the tour.”
“Game on, Ms. Smith.”
“No, no. Tour on. Game off.”
“We’ll see about that.”
His gaze was smoldering hot. Holy shit, this was going to be an interesting day if he upped the ante like this before the tour even started.
I pointed a finger at him. “Cole, I want to focus, so tone down that charm.”
“Oh, I’m distracting you? Like the sound of that.”
I pointed a finger at him. “Colosseum tour. Don’t hijack it. Afterward, everything is negotiable.”
He smiled triumphantly. “Four hours. Then I make the rules.”
Chuckling, I took a deep breath. “Let’s find our guide. By the way, where is your luggage?”
“Sent it to the airport with a special service.”