Chapter 20

• As Annabelle and Nicholas stroll out of the house, an odd feeling of calm settles over her. She thinks this may be the best approach for a date with Nicholas. Unexpectedly, she's caught him off guard so that he can't do any extensive planning. Extensive planning might equal overstated indulgences and premeditated seduction. Two things that she definitely does not need. It's hard enough to resist him as it is.
• “We’ll take my car,” he says, placing a hand on her back, the warmth of his hand there comforting, as he steers her toward a sleek, carbon-black convertible parked at the curb. The Aston Martin is beautiful and looks as if it is meticulously taken care of. It looks like it can really fly, and for just an instant, Annabelle imagines getting behind the wheel, flooring the pedal, and leaving all her ghosts behind.
• “Nice ride,” she grants him, although she tries not to show any interest. She's sure he's used to women fawning all over him and his car. Not her. Let the games begin, she thinks.