She blinked her eyes rapidly, momentarily forgetting that today’s scene hadn’t called for her to shed tears. So, she hadn’t applied the Vapo-rub that we typically use for ordinary actors to elicit on-command crying. ’You think?’

’I know so,’ I said with a reassuring tap on her knee. Rising to my feet, I extended a hand to her. ’Come on, Catherine. The scene is waiting, and I have no doubt you’re going to nail it.’

As she ran off I took my phone. ’Claudia, please call Christian Morel Flowers. Order all of the roses they currently have in stock. And ensure that they’re delivered today to Catherine’s hotel.’

After ending the call, I settled onto the edge of the fountain, the delicate designs beneath my fingers as I closed my eyes, embracing the warmth of the spring sun. The gentle chirping of birds and the distant murmur of flowing water was relaxing. Soon I would have my much-needed holiday, and I couldn’t wait of indulging in endless sleep, finally making a dent in the stack of books that had accumulated on the nightstand, and simply relishing the luxury of even more sleep.

The playful timbre of Kate’s voice sliced through my daydream, pulling me back to reality as she sat beside me. ’And? Did you teach her how to kiss?’

A mischievous grin spread across my face. ’Well, I have to find ways to justify my salary, don’t I?’ I winked. ’Is she at hair now?’

’Uhuh, as we speak.’ Kate affirmed, pushing her pilot glasses into her hair. ’What are we going to do without you while you’re on holiday?’

I leaned back, allowing the sun’s warmth to envelop me again. ”Jean-Pierre will take over,” I replied casually.

A hint of mischief tinged her tone. ’I doubt he’s a good kisser like you.’

I sat up and shrugged. ’I wouldn’t know.’

’I’m dying to find out.’ She whispered.

My mind momentarily stuttered as her face drew closer, a smudged smile tugged at the corners of her mouth. And then her lips were upon mine.

Instinctively, I pushed her away. And jumped up. The air crackled with an unexpected tension and I grappled to find my voice. ’Kate, what the fuck?’