“Hello.”

  “Hello, love,” the familiar voice said, stopping her in her tracks.

  “Russell? How did you get this number?”

  He chuckled as if she’d said something funny. “Love, you have to do better than getting another phone to keep me from finding you. What I want to know is why you changed your number?”

  If Russell had her telephone number, chances were he knew where she lived. It’s not like Mona feared him. He had never threatened her life, but those last months together had her believing he needed psychological help. The mood swings. The delusional thoughts. Anxious one minute and depressed the next. At first, the changes were subtle. But when he and Nick fought because of the way Russell had manhandled Sumeera, Mona was convinced he needed help. Help she couldn’t give him. It was then she made up her mind to leave him.

  “Russell, why are you calling? We agreed it was time we went our separate ways.”

  “I didn’t agree to any such thing. Your home is here in New York. I know you want to get to know our daughter better, but don’t you think it’s time for you to come home now? It’s been three weeks.”

  “Russell, I’ve been here for six months.”

  Silence filled the phone line. This was another sign something was going on with his mind.

  “I know. I’m just…I miss you. I get it now, Mona. I’ve taken you for granted and I’m sorry. Come home and I’ll make it up to you.”

  “We talked about this months ago. I live in Cincinnati now. Did you contact that doctor I recommended?”

  “I don’t need a damn doctor, especially not some quack!” Anger rang through his voice. “I forget things sometimes or have a bad day occasionally. Everyone does.”

  “Not like you’ve been doing lately. You need to get help and sooner rather than later.”

  “You sound like you care. If my health is so important to you, come home and let’s go see the doctor together.”

  Johnette knocked on Mona’s bedroom door. “Hurry up, sis. Dexter will be here soon and I want to see what you look like.”

  Mona cover the phone with her hand. “Be right there,” she called out. “Russell, I have to go. Please call that doctor.”

  “I can send a plane for you. Will you be able to come home in the next few days?”

  Mona closed her eyes and rubbed her forehead. There was no reasoning with him. She might not love him like she once had, but she would always care about him. But Mona didn’t know what else to do to make him see reason.

  “You’re not listening to me, Russell. You need help and I’m staying in Cincinnati.” A thought popped into her mind. Of course he hadn’t called the therapist. She’d been the one who made all of his dental and doctor appointments through the years. Had it not been for her, there was no telling if he would have ever taken care of his health while they were together. “You know what I’m going to do, Russell?”

  “I hope you’re going to tell me you’re coming home.”

  “No, but tomorrow I’ll call and make arrangements for you. Then I’ll let you know the date and time, but you have to keep the appointment.” And she needed to learn how to stop feeling responsible for him.

  He released an irritated groan and said, “Just come home. We can discuss this when you get here. I promise—”

  “Goodbye, Russell.” Mona disconnected, frustrated with herself. She couldn’t help someone who wasn’t willing to help himself. That was one of her problems. They’d been together for so long, she cared about his well-being, especially since he didn’t have anyone else.

  Guilt snuck up on her from time to time regarding the way she had up and left. Granted, she’d talked about leaving for years, but he would always talk her out of it and assumed they’d be together forever.

  “I need to start focusing on me,” she mumbled into the quietness of the room.

  She shoved her cell phone into the handbag and it rang just as she reached the bedroom door. A quick glance at the screen revealed it was Russell. No doubt he would call again, but she didn’t have time for his antics right now.

  “Okay, I’m ready,” Mona said when she walked back into the living room, feeling like a new woman. The right outfit could change a woman’s attitude, but she had forgotten how much it made a difference.

  “Now that’s what I’m talking about,” Johnette said.

  “I can’t believe I’m saying this, but you were right.”

  Her sister stood from the sofa. “I’m always right. But I’m not going to always be here. If you want to be this new and improved person you’ve been talking about, it’s going to be up to you to start looking the part.”

  Before Johnette could continue with her speech, a knock sounded on the door.

  Mona’s pulse amped up and her breathing increased.

  “Okay, I’m going into the guest room until you guys leave. And Mona, don’t overthink everything. Try to have fun.” Johnette hugged her and scurried off to the bedroom.

  Okay, here goes.

  *

  Hot damn, Dexter thought when Mona’s door swung open. All he could do was stare at the vision before him. If he thought she was stunning before, tonight she was absolutely gorgeous. He was glad he had opted for a sweater and dress pants. Had he gone with the long-sleeved T-shirt and jeans, he would’ve been sorely underdressed.

  Sean had been right about one thing. Mona did look like money.

  “Hi,” he finally said, feeling like a bonehead for just staring at her.

  Her smile widened and his heart almost stopped. Those pretty lips were going to be the death of him. He was such a goner.

  “You’re right on time. Come in. Let me grab my purse.”

  Dexter watched her walk away. The gentle sway of her hips—left, right, left—was almost hypnotic. She wasn’t skinny or fat, but had a shapely body like a woman half her age.

  “Do you think I’ll need a jacket?” Mona asked when she suddenly turned to face him, no doubt catching him staring at her butt.

  Dexter’s gaze snapped up and slammed into hers, concern on her face.

  She’s going to think I’m a pervert if I don’t get myself together.

  “I’m sorry. What did you say?”

  “Are you okay?” she asked and approached him. “If you don’t want to go out, I—”

  “Oh no. I’m fine. What did you ask me?”

  “I asked if I needed a jacket.”

  “It’s not too bad outside, but I’m sure it’s going to get a little cooler. It’s probably a good idea to bring one.”

  Dexter stood near the door and glanced around her living space, taking it in for the first time since arriving. The layout was the same as his, but it definitely had a woman’s touch. A woman’s expensive touch. From what he could see, the kitchen, dining room, and living room all looked as if the space was lifted from House Beautiful magazine. There was a lot of white, including the sofa and the carpet. Her accent colors were gray and splashes of navy blue. She definitely had an eye for interior design.

  “Okay, I think I’m ready.”

  “You look beautiful. I’m going to be the envy of every man out tonight.”

  Her smile was shy. “Thank you.”

  “Nice place you have here,” he said, and reached for the door knob.

  “Thanks. I feel like I’m finally settled in.”

  They headed toward the front entrance, Dexter’s hand at the small of her back. He couldn’t help wanting to touch her. Hell, he actually wanted to bury his face against her scented skin. When he held the door for her, the scent of gardenias wafted to his nose as she passed him. He sucked in a breath, inhaling her enticing fragrance, before releasing the breath slowly.

  She was tempting and smelled good. He had a feeling it was going to be a great night.

  “Where are we going?” Mona asked when they stepped outside.

  Dexter glanced down at her feet and her high heels. “How comfortable are your shoes?”

  “They’re actually a lot more comfortable than they look. Why do you ask?”

  “I was thinking we can walk to the restaurant. If you’re up for it.”

  There was that heart-stopping smile again. “That would be nice. I moved to the condo because I liked the area, but I haven’t taken the opportunity to really explore.”

  “Excellent. I was thinking after dinner we can head to a little jazz club a friend of mine recently opened. They play R&B oldies on Friday nights. Hopefully, you like dancing.”

  Mona gave a nervous laugh, her eyes sparkling with delight. “I haven’t danced in years, but that sounds like fun.”

  “I’m glad you think so. I guaranteed you a good time tonight, and I plan to deliver.”

  Chapter Four

  Giddiness replaced Mona’s earlier nervousness as Dexter held her hand and they strolled past Washington Park’s performance stage. The moment felt so natural, as if they’d done this many times before. Though she tried not reading too much into the hand-holding, she had to admit the intimacy of his touch felt nice. Tender moments were rare in her previous relationship.

  Russell did an outstanding job providing any material item she could dream of, and for the most part, he was kind to her. Their early years together were fun and adventurous, but as the business grew, the passion between them slowly declined. Sadly, she couldn’t remember the last time he’d held her hand or hugged her close. Already Dexter was proving to be…

  Mona halted the route of her thoughts. She had vowed not to compare any man she met to her ex. More importantly, she had promised herself she wouldn’t waste any brain power on Russell tonight. It would’ve been easier had he not called before she left home.

  “You doin’ okay?” Dexter asked, squeezing her hand and effectively pulling her back to the present. “I probably should’ve re-thought the idea of walking, considering the heels you’re wearing.”

  She smiled up at him. If only he knew how good she felt, how happy she was at that very moment. It wasn’t because it was a perfect spring night. No. Her joy had everything to do with his company.

  “I’m great. I’m glad you suggested we walk. It’s a beautiful night.” The weather was comfortable with a cool breeze kissing her cheek ever so gently.

  Dexter went back to giving her some history on the Over-the-Rhine area as they passed one charming ornate brick building after another.

  “Tens of millions of dollars went into revitalizing the community. It was only a few years ago that the area was deemed one of the most dangerous neighborhoods in the country. You definitely wouldn’t have wanted to be around here at night. Now, it’s almost unrecognizable.”

  “Sumeera told me the same thing when she first brought me here to tour a few condos for sale.”

  As a real estate agent, her daughter was knowledgeable about the city she had spent most of her life in. They’d visited a number of neighborhoods, but after touring three condominiums in the area, Mona had decided this was where she wanted to be.

  “People who used to live in the suburbs slowly started moving back to the city, and before long, shops and restaurants started popping up,” Dexter continued.

  She could listen to his deep baritone all day, every day. Not because he knew so much about the area and the historical architecture. Even describing the neighborhood, he made it sound sexy. His voice, a velvety rumble, sent tingles through her body. It had been a long time since she’d felt tingles anywhere.

  Mona couldn’t have asked for a better way to start a first date. When she’d answered her door minutes ago, she’d been pleasantly surprised at how nice he looked. The four-button mock-neck sweater was light gray, and he’d paired it with a pair of black tailored slacks. Seeing him the other day in T-shirts and jeans, she hadn’t known what to expect. He cleaned up nice. And more importantly, she was comfortable with him. Already this was turning into one of the most romantic dates she’d ever been on.

  Dexter held her hand tighter as they sidestepped groups of people lined up on the sidewalk in front of a theater. They kept moving down Vine Street toward a number of restaurants.

  “We’re almost there. I hope you like pizza.”

  Mona chuckled. She hadn’t had pizza in years, preferring healthier options, but instead of telling him that, she said, “I do.”

  They crossed the street and a short while later, they strolled into a cozy bistro. The smell of fresh-baked bread, garlic, onions, and oregano greeted them at the door. Mona’s stomach growled in anticipation. The eatery was a perfect blend of romantic—with the dimmed lights and candles on each table—and relaxing, with a laid-back vibe.

  Within minutes they were directed to a small table for two covered with a red and white tablecloth.

  “Is this okay?” Dexter asked, pulling the chair out for her.

  Sweet, with a sexy voice, and he’s a gentleman.

  Oh yeah, Mona could definitely get used to this type of attention.

  “This is fine. Thank you.”

  “Welcome. Can I get you something to drink, maybe a glass of Chianti or Zinfandel?” a server asked, placing two small drink napkins on the table.

  “A glass of Chianti sounds good,” Mona said, and glanced at the menu.

  “And you, sir?”

  “Just water for me. Thank you,” Dexter responded, which made Mona look up. Very few people she knew had dinner without a glass of wine.

  Small talk flowed easily between them after they placed their order. Her first impression of him, when they initially met, had been turned on its heel when he started talking about the environment and global warming. Dexter was a good example of a man who shouldn’t be judged by his appearance. He seemed to know something about everything.

  The server returned with a thin-crust medium cheese, sausage and mushroom pizza, two side salads, and an order of garlic bread.

  “All right, Mona. Tell me something about yourself that I don’t know.”

  *

  Dexter had wanted to ask a few personal questions during their walk to the restaurant, but thought better of it. When they left the condo, she seemed nervous. He figured discussing safe topics, like the weather and the neighborhood, would help loosen her up. Now that they were in a relaxed environment, he wanted to know everything about the conservative beauty sitting across from him.

  “Well, my real name is Mona Lisa Gregory, though I usually go by Mona. And I'm old enough to have a 35-year-old daughter,” she said, smiling, and Dexter chuckled. His gaze went immediately to those pretty heart-shaped lips. He couldn’t help wondering if they were as soft as they looked.

  “Mona Lisa, huh? That’s a beautiful name for a beautiful woman.”

  “Thank you, but I hated it growing up,” she blurted and then laughed, but quickly covered her mouth with her hand. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to be so loud, but back then, kids teased me relentlessly. Now I rarely share my full name.”

  “Well, I’m honored you deem me worthy of sharing your…secret with me.”

  She smiled. “You have a way about you that makes me feel at ease.”

  “I’m glad to hear that.”

  Dexter’s gaze dropped down to where she was using her knife and fork to eat her pizza. He fought a smile. This was a first. Never in his sixty years had he seen anyone eat pizza with a fork. The gesture fit her prim and proper demeanor. Everything about the woman was cute, delicate, and enticing.

  He lifted his slice, folded it and savored the enticing scent before taking a large bite. Cheese with mushrooms and sauce dripped, but he caught them with his finger stuffing them into his mouth, not wanting to waste a single bite. He didn’t care that he wasn’t practicing good manners. Pizza wasn’t meant to be eaten with proper etiquette.

  The delectable spices burst inside his mouth and he moaned internally. There was nothing like a good slice of pizza to make up for a long, exhausting week. He’d been looking forward to the night from the moment he’d asked her out, and this was worth the wait. Great company and amazing food. What more could a guy ask for?

  He glanced over to find Mona staring at him in awe.

  “Clearly, I’m doing this all wrong,” she said with a laugh.

  “Clearly,” Dexter cracked and wiped his mouth. “For the record, pizza is meant to be messy and eaten as such. Lose the fork and knife. I guarantee your slice will taste a thousand percent better.”

  She followed his lead as he showed her the proper steps to eating a thin-sliced pizza. Where he held his moan in, Mona released hers and closed her eyes in the process.

  Her seductive sighs filled Dexter’s ears, raked up his spine, and sent a tantalizing shiver through his body.

  Well, damn. She had taken his love of pizza to a different level. He would never eat another slice again without remembering this night. If she enjoyed it with that much passion, he could only imagine what she’d be like between the sheets.

  Okay, buddy. Don’t go there. Yet.

  “Oh my goodness. You were right. This is amazing,” she said, as if it was the first time she’d eaten a slice of pizza. She dabbed at the corners of her mouth and smiled up at him. “Thank you.”

  Dexter swallowed hard. “No. Thank you,” he mumbled, tugging on the leg of his pants and discreetly moving around on his chair. His shaft pressed uncomfortably against his zipper, and he tried to think of less pleasant things than getting her into bed. It had been awhile for him and if watching her eat pizza had him hard, he didn’t even want to imagine how it was going to be the first time he tasted her gorgeous mouth.

  “What else don’t I know about you?” he finally asked after a long moment.

  “My favorite thing in the world these days is spending time with my granddaughter.” Love shone in her eyes and he recalled the birth of his first grandchild.

  “I can understand that. Chanelle is a cutie, but I see good looks run in the family.”

  Mona lowered her eyes and smiled, color tinting her cheeks. Dexter already knew making her blush was going to be one of his new favorite things to do.

  “And that daughter of yours definitely found herself a good guy,” Dexter said of his younger cousin, Nick, Mona’s son-in-law.

  “I have to agree. He’s the best. Actually, the whole Jenkins family have been wonderful. Soon after I moved to Cincinnati, they embraced me as if they had known me all their lives.” Mona took a small bite of garlic bread and wiped her mouth. “Now, how are you related?”

 

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