She winced. She couldn’t even think about Expect the Worst, not without feeling the loss of all the parts she’d anticipated getting after the success of her first big role. It wasn’t just the money and the fame. When she was acting, she was doing what she loved most. Her dreams had been destroyed in the same instant as her face.

“I don’t want to talk about the movie,” she said firmly. “I don’t even want to hear you mention it—or I’ll have to leave.”

His eyebrows slid up. “Got it. No problem. That’s actually a good thing, since I don’t know much about the entire industry.” He came toward her. “Can I take your coat?”

She preferred to keep it. No doubt it would be easier to leave at the earliest opportunity if she remained ready. But it was premature to think of leaving. She had to spend time with Kiki, and there was no use carrying her jacket around the house.

“I hope you don’t have any dietary restrictions,” he said as she relinquished it despite her initial reluctance.

“No.”

He walked over to the closet. “Good. I would’ve called to check, but I was afraid if I gave you the chance to change your mind, you would.” That captivating smile curved his lips again, the one that made it impossible not to notice how attractive he was. But she didn’t return it. She wasn’t here to make friends. She just wanted to get this over with as soon as possible.

“You’d have to have my number to call me,” she pointed out. And she knew she hadn’t given it to him.

He hung up her coat. “I have it.”

“How?”

“How do you think?” he asked as he led her into the kitchen.

“Maxi.”

He indicated a chair at the table near the window that faced the pool and deck, but she chose to remain standing. “Didn’t he give you mine?” he asked.

“He might’ve texted it. I haven’t checked my phone.”

“You’ve been busy,” he said.

When she realized he was teasing her, she shot him a dirty look.

Instead of getting offended, he laughed. “I’m giving you a hard time. Would you like something to drink?”

She craved a drink in the worst way, but she knew alcohol would only make her relax, and she needed to remain vigilant, in total control. “I’m okay.”