Page 28 of Rafael

“My point exactly,” he said.

YaYa faced him, her brow dipping low over her forehead. “She ran because she’s scared.”

“Of me?”

“Not of you,” YaYa said. “Of herself.”

He shook his head. “I don’t understand.”

“She’s afraid to let down her guard. Afraid of giving her trust to someone who could potentially hurt her.”

“I wouldn’t hurt her.”

YaYa cocked an eyebrow. “Wouldn’t you?”

“I’d never lie to her,” Rafael said. “I’d tell her the truth and let her make up her own mind.”

“Even if the truth would be just as hurtful as a lie?” YaYa asked quietly.

He stared into the Mamba Wamba Gift Shop window, searching for Gisele.

He’d always assumed that if he told the women he saw the truth about not wanting strings or commitment, it would be less painful when it came time to leave.

Was it?

When had he gone back to the women he’d dated and left behind to ask if his abrupt departure had caused them pain?

Never.

Wow. That made him as big an asshat as the man who’d thrown Gisele under the bus.

“I don’t want to hurt her,” Rafael said. “But I do want to make sure she’s safe.”

“Then make her safe.” She laid her hand on his arm. “But leave her heart to someone who won’t break it.” She lifted her chin toward the second-story windows. “And don’t be a peeping Tom.”

Rafael held up a hand. “For security reasons only.”

YaYa snorted. “Right.” The older woman turned away.

“YaYa,” Rafael called out.

She looked over her shoulder. “Yes?”

“You’re a good friend to Gisele.”

“She’d give me the shirt off her back,” YaYa said. “Don’t hurt her.”

Rafael nodded. “Yes, ma’am.”

Her eyes narrowed. “And don’t call me ma’am. I’m not that much older than you.” Her face softened. “But I do wish I was at least fifteen years younger when I’m with you. I like to think I would’ve stood a chance.” She sighed.

“You’re a beautiful woman, YaYa.” He tapped a fist to his chest. “Where it counts most.”

She laughed. “Oh, please. That’s like having a good personality.”

“When you have a good heart, a good personality and friends,” he said, “you have enough. Youareenough.”

“Your words are as pretty as your face, Rafael Romero. Be sure your actions match.” With that last bit of advice, she entered her studio.

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