Page 16 of Easy Rumba

Gabby chuckles.

“I’m not going to answer that. It’s a conversation you and Elise need to have together. I could see your mind working when you met Izzy. Just don’t hurt Elise. She’s been through enough.”

Gabby’s a shrewd woman. She knows exactly what I was trying to find out, and I appreciate her honesty.

“It’s the farthest thing from my mind. I lost contact with her once. I won’t make the same mistake again.”

“Good.”

Elise and Izzy return, and all three of the ladies stand.

“I’ll pay the bill, and then we must get going,” Elise says. “It’s late. Izzy needs to get to bed, and I have to be up early to work with my demanding taskmaster. I think he’s already brought out the competitive spirit in me. I want to win this show, Leo, so you better get all your teaching sessions prepared.”

“Don’t worry. I’m ready to crack the whip,” I reply with a wink, and both the women suppress mischievous laughs. “You ladies, go ahead and get home safely. This is my treat.”

“Thank you.” Gabby takes Izzy’s hand, and with a wave goodbye, they both start walking out of the restaurant.

Elise remains behind.

“Thank you, Leo. I mean it. I want us to do really well. I’ll work as hard as you can push me.”

I get to my feet and tentatively reach out and take her hand.

“We had good chemistry before, and I’ve already felt some of it returning as we’ve been dancing. I’ve got no worries. Go get some rest, and I’ll see you tomorrow.”

“Good night, Leo.” Elise leans forward and presses a tender kiss to my cheek.

I inhale her scent and relish the feel of her lips on my suddenly overly sensitive skin.

“Good night, Elise.”

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