The next day, Emily did not have to wait long for a call from her friend and soon to be fake boyfriend.
She meant to call him as soon as she finished breakfast, but her phone rang at 9 am.
“Have you forgiven me yet?” Byron’s smooth voice caressed her ear.
“Yes,” she replied, “and I want to do the fake dating.”
“You do?” his voice suddenly lost some of its professional lustre, and he sounded vulnerable for a moment. “Let’s talk it over. I’ll pick you up for lunch at Mangiamo.”
The Italian restaurant was bustling with glamorous couples and smartly dressed professionals. Amadeo, the same middle-aged man who had served them the last time they were here, appeared even happier to see Byron. Once again he had a hug for his employer and a warm greeting for Emily.
She was bewildered by how c
