“Today is my son’s sixth birthday. I’m throwing him a small, informal party at my apartment with just my family. I would like you to attend.”
I suppose that was an order too. He padded toward the bathroom and returned wearing his tennis shoes. He glanced down at his watch, an old gold Rolex, and knitted his brows.
“I’ve got to go. I promised my son I’d take him to see a movie this afternoon and then go to Dylan’s Candy Bar.” His eyes returned to mine. “I expect to see you this evening.”
“Where do you live?” I asked, squeaking out the words.
“1001 Park Avenue. Andre will pick you up at 5:30. Please meet him downstairs. And please don’t wear any underwear.”
I gazed at him sheepishly.
He smirked. “Don’t worry. My mother and my sister will be there. And, of course, my son. It’s highly unlikely I will be doing any kind of exploration. But I would like to use my imagination.”
He rendered me speechless again. The sound of Jo-Jo’s meow gave me an excuse to avoid a response. Brushing against my legs, he was craving attention. I felt Ari’s eyes on me as I bent down to pick her up. I cuddled her in my arms while Ari caressed her soft fur. The cat purred.
“My cat really seems to like you.”
He winked at me. “I’m good with pussies.”
Oh was he!
“I’ll see you later.”
With a smug smile, he strode to the door to let himself out. The hairs on the back of my neck stood up. Jo-Jo wasn’t the only one purring.