That triggered a slow-burning blush underneath the perfect tan.

“Fine. We’re even now as far as awkward moments go.” He winked at her, and then jerked his thumb in the direction of the terrace. The casual, flirty, familiar-feeling conversation had worked to put her at ease. “Do you mind if I swim while we talk?”

Tina looked back at him uncertainly. He nodded his understanding and quick-walked to a nearby dresser. He talked as he searched for something in the drawers. “Yeah, I know the sun’s out. Not to worry. There must be something here to protect you …”

“Ah ha!” Triumphantly. He pulled out a sun-visor and Goop! sun block. Before Tina could say anything he was by her side. Did he always move so quickly?

“Umm.. it’s not that. But thanks for thinking of this,” Tina answered as she accepted what he offered. “I’m not sure if your PA was all that clear about what I wanted to talk to you about?”

He nodded. “She was. We can talk about that … as well as what I want to talk about also.”

“I’ll get a few laps in while you slather that stuff on.” He turned and was peeling his shirt off before Tina could ask what he could be interested in talking about with her. To no one in particular that Tina could see, he added in a louder voice, “And Gary would you please have some of that mint julep tea and a few apps brought out for our guest?”

Unless this place had some kind of intercom system, I’m not sure if anyone heard that.

Ten minutes later, Tina elected to sit in one of the tables bordering the infinity pool. A welcome shade that extended from an exterior wall covered her from the sun. Miraculously, a pitcher of a delicious mint drink was served to her, along with a plate of assorted bruschetta and prosciutto-covered melon slices.

After a few more laps, Gavin swum to her side, wiping off water from his face.

“I’ve read the script several times,” he started without preamble. “I don’t think it’s the type of film I should do with you.”

“Now, Gavin before you decide that, shouldn’t you hear…” Tina answered quickly.

“But I’m not saying I don’t want to work with you, Tina,” he cut in. He swam away from her, doing the backstroke. “Hang on for a second while I do a couple laps of this.”