“Well,” Marlene said. She looked at Kamila, then quickly turned to Anil. “What about that friend of yours, the fundraising expert you knew from Pakistan? Maybe she’ll work with Mr. Nasser on this event.”

“Tajikistan, actually,” Anil said.

Damn it. No, not Jana.

“I’ll do it,” Kamila said.

Rohan shook his head. “You don’t have to, Kam.”

“I want to. It will be fun.” She smiled at Anil. “I can plan a party with my eyes closed. Plus, I have Rohan to help.” She elbowed him gently. “We’re a great pair. We’re planning to retire together to run a street-side momo cart, you know.”

After the meeting, Anil showed Rohan and Kamila the event space where the cocktail party would be. It was completely devoid of personality, but Kamila could work with it.

“I’m so pleased you’re joining us,” Anil said to Kamila at a moment when Rohan had stepped away to take a work call. “Why don’t I take you to lunch or dinner sometime soon? A nonworking meal. I think I owe you an apology for putting you on the spot there.”

“Oh!” Kamila said. “Apology completely unnecessary, but thank you. Lunch would be great.”

“Excellent. I’ll call you to set something up. And I’ll email you those figures you needed for the incorporation papers. Feel free to contact me with any questions about any of this. Our next fundraising meeting is in two weeks. See you then!”

Chapter 12

Chapter 12

I’m sorry, Kam. I feel like you were ambushed there,” Rohan said as they made their way into the cool evening. “I can talk to Anil if planning this party is too much for you.”

Kamila sighed as she wrapped her scarf around her neck. “It’s fine. I’ll make it work. Ugh—I might stop movie nights until these parties are done. Everyone will be annoyed. Although…” She grinned. “I’m happy I get to work with you. Should we set up a date to discuss our party?”

A smile spread across his face. “We’re together now. Why don’t we discuss over an early dinner? Or do you need to go home to your dad?”

Kamila preferred to be at home for dinner when Dad was home so she could keep an eye on his mood and make sure he ate well. But one night couldn’t hurt. “Let me call him.”

Dad of course insisted she have dinner with Rohan, saying he would happily eat salad and biryani and would take Darcy for a walk. He sounded upbeat on the phone, so Kamila figured he’d be okay.

“Looks like we’re on a date. Dad’s fine.” She looped her arm through Rohan’s. “Where are you taking me?”

“Where would you like to go?”