Read Online Appointment with a Smile by Kieran York - Free Book Online Page A

I’ve always maintained if your sexual appetite is sustained, your painting improves.”
    “Quite the opposite. My creative endeavors seem to detract from desire. I direct my sexual energy toward my work. Sorry, I’m not available right now.”
    “What did you do last night? Another painting?”
    “Nearly. I’m finishing up even as we speak.”
    “If it has ‘Molly’ in the title, I’m going to scream.”
    “It’s called A Scene from Our Story .”
    “Another picture of Molly?”
    I didn’t answer.
    “Your silence is telling me I’m right. Face facts, Danielle. She hasn’t called. And you’re pouring your heart out painting pictures of her. You’re getting myth mixed up with history.”
    “This painting is different. I’m trying to capture a look of hers as she shopped. It was unlike any I’ve ever seen.”
    “And you remember all her expressions for the eight years you were together?”
    Pain gripped my heart. “I think I may well remember them all.”
    “To me, it seems she’s ignoring you. She knows where you’re staying. She knows where your work is being shown. Damn it, Danielle, she can call if she’s interested and she hasn’t called.”
    “I’m well aware of that,” I shot back.
    “Bethany Cortland is a sublime woman. She is hot and smart.”
    “What about your sweetie? Why were you checking out this Bethany?”
    “I have wonderful peripheral vision. I noticed Bethany, but I notice all lovely women. She’s about your height, a little slighter maybe. You’re both skinny broads.”
    “Why don’t you take both Carrie and Bethany out tonight? I have to finish this painting. And stop heckling me about my weight.”
    “Consider the painting finished. Get fixed up and let’s party. Only one night. I’m sure she couldn’t put up with you on a second date. Even if you feigned charm.”
    I rolled my eyes. “It could be a mutual rejection, you know.”
    “Nope. She’s adorable. She’s articulate. Lovely. She’s trim. Harp-string muscles.”
    “Harp-string muscles. Is that British for saying she’s extremely masculine?”
    “Oh, no. Trust me. She’s all woman. When I commented on her athletic body, she corrected me, saying she’s well-trained. Toned and feminine. And she abhors competitive sports. See, you’ve got a commonality right there. Come on, Danielle, stop being catatonic. End celibacy. It might not even be a resounding success, but do try. You’re hardly the lascivious type, but you could attempt to be a wanton, brazen bitch for one night.”
    “I’m not searching for a torrid affair.”
    “Contrary to what you think, sex isn’t on the protected species list. While you still have a full range of motion and some energy, give it a go.”
    “Absolutely not.”
    “Here’s how it’s going down. I’m going shopping for a new pair of shoes. I’ll be back at the hotel by four or so. I’ll get ready. Then we can go to the restaurant together where we’ll meet our dates. Come on. I flew all the way over here for you.” Now she’d resorted to whining.
    I paused and reviewed my options. “Okay, I’ll go.”
    “That’s my girl. As the Brits say, do try to make an effort. A little makeup might not hurt your chances. Don’t be timid. Glam up a tad. And be friendlier.”
    “Is Carrie all for this double-date junk?”
    “Yes. She mentioned she hoped you weren’t going to be a storm cake.”
    “Storm cake,” I repeated. “Storm cake?”
    “I told you Carrie is a total and complete hoot and has a full vocabulary of these British sayings. You’ll enjoy yourself. And maybe you’ll enjoy Bethany.”
    “Esther, I’m not all that good with age differences.”
    “five years is nothing. And come to think of it, twenty-plus years is marvelous. Now, cheer yourself up.”
    “Have you ever been accused of being a control freak?” I asked.
    “Not to my face. No one would dare.” A moment later she muttered, “I have been called a general before, though.”
    I