as if it was covered in germs, and raised her book in the air. “I don’t mean to be rude, Mr. Morretti, but as you can see I’m very busy.”
“I deserve that. I was rude earlier, wasn’t I?”
“Yes,” she replied, vigorously nodding. “You were.”
“I’m sorry. I’m working on an important disposition, and sometimes when I get caught up in a case I lose sight of everything else.”
“Then why are you wasting your time talking to me?”
“Spending time with a vivacious woman is never a waste of time,” he said smoothly. “And I’m curious to hear about your trip to Italy.”
“Why? Do you moonlight as a travel guide when you’re not in court?”
“I do for beauties with freckles.”
He smiled when Tatiyana laughed.
Her bracelets clanged as she swept a hand through her hair. The words Sister’s Keeper were tattooed on the inside of her wrist in small, fine script, and Markos was curious about the intricate design. “That’s an interesting tattoo. Are you a twin?”
“No.” The light in her eyes dimmed. “My sister’s five years younger than me, but I’ve always taken care of her and I always will. She’s my heart.”
“I feel the same way about my siblings. I’d do anything for them,” he said, meaning every word. “Are you from LA, or just passing through?”
“I was in town visiting relatives,” she explained. “I’m originally from Bridgeport.”
Markos saw a message pop up on his iPad, guessed it was one of his clients, but ignored it. He wanted to know more about Tatiyana, not read emails. “Have you been to Tampa before? Or is this your first time?”
“No, never, but Dalton loves the city, so I’m in good hands.”
“Dalton? Is that your husband?”
“No, my best friend. We met in college, and we’ve been inseparable ever since.”
Suspicious, Markos probed further. “And you’re sure he’s not your man?”
“I’m positive,” she said, giving him a puzzled look. “Why don’t you believe me?”
“Because you’re stunning, and I bet men chase you down for your number 24/7.”
“You’re quite the charmer, Markos. Doesn’t Mrs. Morretti mind you flirting with other women? I would if you were my man.”
If you were my wife, I wouldn’t need anyone else. He dismissed the outrageous thought with a shake of his head and answered her question. “I’m not married. Law is my first and only love, and that will never change.”
“Spoken like a true attorney,” she teased.
“Are you a model?”
“No, I’m an executive secretary at Pinnacle Microsystems.”
Impressed, he nodded. “Great company. I have several friends at Pinnacle. Do you know anyone in the marketing department?”
“No, it’s a huge company, and I like to keep to myself. I’m super busy with school right now, so I don’t have time to socialize with my colleagues outside of work.”
“What are you studying?”
“I’d love to work in the non-profit field as a program director or manager, so I decided to get my business degree,” she explained. “But enough about me. Let’s talk about you. Are you traveling to Tampa for work or pleasure?”
“Hopefully, both. Are you free tonight?”
“No. We’re going to the R&B Summer Jam at Applause Nightclub, but you’re more than welcome to join us. Divas are performing, and I can’t wait to see them perform live!”
“Who?”
A puzzled expression wrinkled her features. “The female rap group?”
“Sorry. Never heard of them.”
“Are you kidding me? Were you living under a rock in the nineties?”
“No, in Italy,” he explained, warding off bitter memories. “My parents separated, and my brothers and I went to live with my grandparents until the divorce was finalized.”
“That must have been a very difficult for you. I grew up without a father, so unfortunately I know what it’s like to experience hard times. It’s tough.” Her expression was sympathetic. “But don’t worry. I’ll buy you their greatest hits album for Christmas!”
Markos laughed out loud. He liked her. What wasn’t to like? A ball of energy, she was able to capture his attention despite everything he had on his mind. As expected, Tatiyana was far more interesting than his paperwork. She regaled him with stories about her childhood, her love of pop culture and her small, close-knit family.
“Where are you staying this weekend?” he asked. “With your friend, or at a hotel?”
“Dalton lives in Orlando, so we’re staying at the Oasis Spa and Resort. It’s the Rashawn Bishop Charity Golf tournament, and I’m going to win it all. Just watch me.”
Markos admired her confidence. Tatiyana was as witty as she was beautiful, and he had to see her again. “Small world. I’m staying at the same resort, and I’m also attending the tournament.”
“Then we’ll be seeing each other a lot this weekend. Should be fun.”
“Let’s exchange numbers. Maybe we can have a drink one night.”
“I’d like that. You seem like a cool guy, and I have a feeling Dalton’s sister is going to love you. She loves Italian men, especially handsome ones.”
Markos groaned, hanging his head as if overcome with despair. And he was. Sick of people hooking him up. He wished they’d quit sending needy, marriage-crazed females his way, and leave him alone. “I have the worst luck. I can’t go anywhere without someone trying to set me up.”
“Trust me, I’m an expert at reading people, and Genevieve is exactly your type.”
Amused, a grin tugged at his lips. “What’s my type?”
“Smart, independent and successful, right?”
“You certainly fit the bill.”
“I’m looking for Mr. Right—”
“Look no further. I’m right here.”
Tatiyana scoffed, with a loud, sarcastic laugh. “That’s what they all say until someone younger and prettier with bigger boobs comes along.”
“I’m not a player. Never have been. I’m an honest, upstanding guy who enjoys long walks in
