“Because it feels Sahara hot being next to this heat source,” Alice added, pointing at Aerin and me. “The only question I have is whether it will get hotter or it will get cooler to be around you two once you finally get together.”

I blushed again.

“I think it’ll get hotter, myself,” Aerin answered her, and looked my way, giving me a wink. “It’s natural. Once we get to know more about each other. What we each like … how we like it done … what we like but have never admitted to anyone… there won’t be any bounds for us …”

I was now blushing furiously and felt really unsure about whether Aerin was turning the tables on me and teasing me, together with her friends.

“Ay caramba!” Shane stood up suddenly, throwing her hands dramatically to her head as she walked around. “I’m sorry Aerin. I love you like a sister but I have to admit that I have a crush on your girl. Especially when she blushes, and her Mona Lisa smile comes out, and …. Anyway, there I said it!”

I knew now that Aerin was just trying to get a rise out of me. And had succeeded.

I shook my head bemusedly at her and Shane.  I didn’t know whether Shane was still teasing, or this flirty approach of hers was how she just naturally acted. Aerin pretended to glower at her, so it was probably the latter situation.

Whatever it was, I could see that they were good friends – all of them were. As they continued to tease Aerin, I sat back, enjoying just being an observer. I was happy that they all were supportive of us. It was a good sign, right?

Suddenly my cell rang. I answered the call when I saw who was calling me. “Mr. Desmond?… No, we’re not scheduled for a meeting today… we were supposed to meet tomorrow… I’m in West Hollywood, actually … yes, of course I could try to meet you in an hour or so. Yes, our conference room would be alright… see you then.”

“Client?” Aerin asked. “But I thought you’d cleared your afternoon?” I could see she bit off the rest of what she’d been about to say.