Page 94 of Eternal Surrender

“You have a morbid imagination.”

“And yours spends most of its time thinking of her,” he said.

“Who?”

“Ingrid.”

I turned to see Sebastian heading toward us, thankful for his timing.

Alex kept his focus on me. “Can I have this one?”

“Where would you put it?” I asked.

Alex slid off and landed lightly. “The foyer.”

“How about. . . no,” I said.

“This place would be great to introduce you both back into society,” Sebastian said. “Artists are known for being eccentric.” He coughed. “Not that I’m calling either of you.”

“Eccentric?” Alex dropped his gaze.

“Different.” Sebastian glanced at his shoes, suddenly finding them interesting.

“We’re not planning on this place staying open,” I said. “Just need a convincing front.”

Alex headed toward the door and threw a smile our way. “I’ll check on the hors d’oeuvres.”

“Already did,” Sebastian said. “Champagne’s on ice.”

“Looks like we’re ready,” I said.

Sebastian watched Alex leave. “He hates me doesn’t he?”

“That was a smile,” I said, amused.

Sebastian seemed apprehensive. “Then what’s with him leaving the room every time I enter it?”

The truth was even more endearing than he could imagine.

“I’m very impressed with what you’ve done with the place.”

“Are you changing the subject?”

“You’ve done an outstanding job.” I strolled over to him. “Everything looks authentic.” I took in the Buddha, his calm expression exuding a serene presence.

Sebastian studied the Asian Master. “Quite something.”

I motioned to Buddha’s calm expression. “In Buddhism, Dukkha is the first of the Four Noble Truths.”

Sebastian crossed his arms over his chest. “All human experience is transient and desire brings suffering.”

“Its philosophical meaning is more similar to disquietude.”

Sebastian studied me. “You think I’m ready to dance again, is that it?”

“Only then will that voice within you be stilled, Seb.”

“I’m not ready to leave here just yet.”