“So, what brings you to London?” My curiosity about this beautiful Indian girl suddenly knows no bounds.

She runs a hand through her flowing hair and her sweater drops down her right arm. I watch mesmerized at the creamy skin of her exposed shoulder. The light from the overhead chandelier glows on her and her skin gleams golden. Our eyes meet and she catches me looking at her.

“I uh...” she falters as I continue to stare at her. She raises her brow at me and I tilt my head to stare at her better. Her hand goes to lift the sweater up, but then she drops her hand, leaving her sweater exactly where it was, low on her arm.

Laughter dances in her eyes. Grinning, she shakes her head at me before speaking. “I have business here. I’m going to meet Dale Adcock. His paintings on totems are quite innovative and unique, not to mention quirky. I would love to introduce them in India.” She smiles. “Oh, and I’m also meeting Phil Vickery. His glass sculptures are fantastic. I want to commission a few pieces from him. I think some of my clients will love them.”

I lean back in my chair. “Your knowledge of these famous English artists is quite up to the point.”

Her eyes narrow marginally. “Why the tone of surprise?”

“I’m surprised and impressed.”

Aaliya raises her wine glass to her lips and takes a sip. Her tongue snakes out to lick an errant drop and I can’t stop staring at her mouth. I have to force my mind to focus on her next words.

“I’ve heard that you are a great designer yourself and that a couple of years ago you were listed as one of the top ten architects and interior designers of the world,” she says. She tilts her head to Gabe, “Gabriel has told me a lot about you.”

“Nice things, I hope.”

Gabriel raises his hands in defense. “I swear I told her the good stuff only.”

I sigh, shaking my head. “I find that so hard to believe when you say it like that.”

Aaliya laughs. The husky sound once again punches me in the gut. It reminds me of sunshine and bright mornings. Shit! Where did that thought come from?

Before I can tell her anything else, my phone rings. I frown as I see Celia’s name flash on the screen. I silence the call but before I can put it down, it rings again. I silence it once more.

The phone rings a third time and Gabe and Aaliya both look at me and then exchange a look with each other.

“Do you want to get that?” Gabe asks, when my phone continues to buzz.

I press my lips and check the time before I finally pick up.

“Damien,” Celia breathes before I can say a word.

“What is it?” I snap.