Page 24 of Rules Of Engagement: St. Louis
“Nothing with women is simple. You should know that by now.” Xander finished his drink and reached for the bottle again. “What’s her name?”
“Naomi.”
“Naomi, what?”
I hesitated. “Blackford.”
Xander’s hand stilled on the bottle. “Naomi Blackford? As in the woman who runs that high-end escort service?”
“You know her?”
“I know of her. Her reputation, anyway. Discreet, expensive, exclusive clientele.” Xander poured himself another drink, his expression thoughtful. “That’s your arrangement? You’re a client?”
“It started that way.” Heat covered my ears at the mix of defensiveness in my explanation. “But it’s not like that anymore. It hasn’t been for a long time.”
“Then what is it like?”
I thought about Wednesday night. The way Naomi had fallen asleep against my shoulder. The way her hand had felt in mine. The way she’d looked at me when I’d suggested she stay.
“It’s like we’re in a relationship, but we’re not. We’re doing all of the things but with a schedule, without a title, and without complications.”
Xander laughed, but it wasn’t mocking. “Brother, you are in deep.”
“I know.”
“How much do you know about this woman?”
“She speaks of her family and business often. Her father is a veteran, and her work life balance is rigorous.”
“What about past relationships?”
“Nothing.”
“As in?”
“She doesn’t speak about them.”
“And you haven’t asked?”
“No.”
“Why?”
“If she wants to tell me about them, she will and besides we don’t have that type of relationship. It’s not invasive. It’s more of a listening ear, chill, calm space for us.”
“So what’s the problem? Ask her out for real. See where it goes.”
“It’s not that simple.”
“Why not?”
I took another sip of Brandy, feeling it burn on my tongue. “Because she’s the one who set the rules in the first place. No explanations, and no expectations. She doesn’t want complications.”
“But you do.”
“I want her to be happy. And if keeping things simple makes her happy, then that’s what I’ll do.”
Xander shook his head. “You’re an idiot.”
