Bennett considered the question. “I suppose that depends on who’s drinking it. For me, it’s sweet, like the nectar of the finest fruit imaginable. For mortals, on the other hand, I’m told it has a metallic taste similar to copper.”

“Like sucking on a penny?”

“I wouldn’t know,” Bennett said, fighting to keep a straight face. “I try not to put coins in my mouth whenever possible. You don’t know where they’ve been.”

“Ha ha.”

Bennett sat on the edge of the bed. “So, are you hungry?” Ruby’s eyes doubled in size, and Bennett let out a laugh. “I was actually talking about food this time. I’m sure you’re famished, so would you like to join me for dinner? We could order something in, or we can go out. Your choice.”

“You’re right. I am starving, and out would be nice.”

“All right,” Bennett said, glancing at the pile of clothes on the chair. “I’m not sure the frock you wore last night would be suitable though. I was thinking someplace casual.”

“Casual works, and I won’t be suitable until I take another shower,” Ruby said, putting the mug on the nightstand. “Would you mind if I borrowed your robe and head up to my place to get cleaned up?”

“Not at all,” Bennett said, standing so Ruby could climb out of bed. “You do that. I’ll get dressed, and then we can leave.”

Bennett handed Ruby the red silk robe, trying her best not to leer at the naked woman in front of her. Bennett failed miserably, and Ruby saw every second of the woman’s overt ogling.

Ruby snatched the robe and put it on in a flash. “I have a feeling if I don’t get out of here right now, the restaurants will be closed by the time we finally leave this room.”

“You’re probably right,” Bennett said, sweeping her arm toward the door. “Let me walk you out.”

Bennett threw aside the latch on the door before giving Ruby a light kiss. “I’ll leave it unlocked,” she said as their lips parted. “Let yourself in when you’re ready.”

“Is that safe?”

“It is when you’re me,” Bennett said, opening the door.

“Good point.” Ruby stole another quick kiss and then scooted up the stairs.

***

A short time later, Ruby stood in front of her bathroom mirror, applying the last bit of her makeup. Eager to return to Bennett, she had stripped, showered, and dressed in record time even though Ruby knew what they had wasn’t love. It was lust. Other than the occasional gasp or sigh or softly uttered instructions, the words spoken between them in bed were few. There were no whispered promises or hushed words of love or forever, no pretense of something more than what it was…and Ruby was okay with that.