Over the next few days, Jonathan and I toured the brilliant city and taking in sights like the Tower of London and London Zoo as well as riding a double-decker red bus while Shane worked in his office somewhere in the busy hub.
In the evening, we’d meet up with Shane for drinks and dinner. Shane was delightfully entertaining and charming; I wondered a few times why he didn’t have someone with him when we were out together. It must be uncomfortable always being the third wheel. I did recall Jonathan mentioning that Shane was far too busy for a relationship.
At night, I’d dream that I was floating in the dark sea of water and I was never scared. It was as though the water and the starry sky above kept me calm and centered. I felt someone else’s presence there, waiting for me to break the silence but I never did. My subconscious liked the peacefulness too much to recognize the presence. But it was comforting knowing someone was there protecting me from the nightmares.
Thursday afternoon, Jonathan had tons of prep work to do for his teleconference with Eric. Shane was kind enough to let Jonathan use his personal study in the townhouse. Meanwhile, I sat on the bench in the backyard, reading Interview With The Vampire for the tenth time. Along with Mustangs, I had an obsession with Anne Rice’s vampire literature since my teens.
“Interesting choice of reading.” Shane’s voice bounded out of nowhere.
I smiled, I earmarked the page, and then peeked up at him.
“Promise you won’t judge me for my secret love of vampires,” I said.
He stood a few feet away from me, answering, “No judgment here. If you are mad about brooding, blood-sucking creatures, then who am I to say otherwise? Plus, I heard that Hollywood is making a film adaptation of that book.”
“Why Shane, if I didn’t know any better, I would think you’re a fan.” I teased, getting up from the bench.
“I have read a few of her more sensually unconventional manuscripts under the nom de plume Roquelaure.”
I wasn’t aware that Rice had a pseudonym.
“Well, sounds like thought provoking reading that I should check out.” I paused, wondering why he was home during the middle of the day. “What are you doing here? Shouldn’t you be toiling away in your office in the sky?”
“Even the greatest mastermind needs a reprieve from his labor,” Shane grinned.
I knew Brighton Estate and his many properties weren’t bought and maintained on a breather. The idea of him taking a break from his business empire was like the New York Stock Exchange pausing in the middle of a workday. I just assumed he’d be working relentlessly during the business hours. Maybe even past those hours. However, he always found time for Jonathan and me.
With a serious tone, I inquired, “No, really, why are you home right now? It’s the middle of the workday.”
Shane took a few steps closer to me and I stared into his deep sultry eyes. “When Jonathan told me he would be occupied with business, I presumed that you would need entertaining.”
I laughed. “So, what am I now? A toddler who needs entertaining?” I got up and walked passed him, towards the house. “I don’t need to be babysat. Thanks though.”
“I apologize; however, that was not what I was implying. I thought you would like to get out of the house…possibly to visit the National Gallery.”
I stopped in my tracks at the mention of the art museum. The thought of viewing a da Vinci, a Van Gogh, or a Picasso was very exciting.
I can’t pass up this golden opportunity.
