Page 25 of Resurrection
“I’d love to paint you, Imogen. Show you my studio. Spend the day with me tomorrow?”
“Don’t you have to work?”
Nic shook his head. “I only spend two days per week at the shop. The rest, I spend in my studio or just enjoying life.”
“Why don’t you tattoo in your own studio?”
It was a fair question.
“It’s my space. My home. I don’t like people there often.”
“But you want me to come?”
His cheeks stretched into a smile at the thought of her there. “I wouldn’t have invited you if I didn’t.”
“I feel kinda special then.”
“You should. There’s something different about you too. I haven’t figured out what it is yet, but I’d like to.”
Her pink blush grew and spread, and he knew exactly how he’d mix the paints for the color of her cheeks.
“I’d like that too.”
“When do you have to leave New Orleans?”
“I took two weeks off to be with my family. I’m supposed to go back to work on Monday.”
It was Thursday.
“So, you at least have the weekend.”
“Unless I extend. They’ll let me. I never take vacations, and they’ll totally understand if I need more time, especially after what happened.”
“Good,” Nic said as he nodded. “Sleep well, Imogen. I’ll pick you up at ten, if you’re game. We can grab some beignets on the way to my place.”
“I’d love that. I’ll tell Jury she’ll have to wait until next week if she wants a tattoo from the famous Niquaise St. Clair.”
His full name on her lips was something else.
“If it gives you a reason to stick around, I’ll be happy to do it.”
“I’m still not sold on the whole tattoo business. Needles aren’t my thing.”
“I understand. I don’t recommend them for anyone.”
Her eyes went wide. “But you’re”—she waved a hand—“covered.”
“Which is why I know what I’m talking about. Don’t start, if you can help it. But your sister already has one on her forearm, so what’s one more?”
She laughed. “Okay, I see how that happens.”
“I’d better go. Sweet dreams, Imogen.”
“Good night, Nic. Thank you for everything.”
He brushed another kiss across her cheek. “Until tomorrow.”
“Ten a.m.,” she replied. “I’ll see you then.”
