Strictly As Acquaintances

‘Yes, it’s me,’ Kira said. ‘You don’t sound surprised.’ Austyn took another drag on his cigarette. ‘You asked me for my number earlier.’ ‘Right.’ Kira scratched her cheek. ‘Uh, I’m just calling to ask if you are available tomorrow.’ ‘Available for?’ ‘I want to invite you to dinner. Or lunch, if you’re busy at night. Or breakfast! Take your pick.’ When she didn’t hear a reply, Kira said, ‘So, are you free?’ ‘Before that, let’s get one thing clear.’ ‘What is it?’ Kira sat up straighter. His tone was serious. ‘You claim to know me, but you must understand, from my perspective, you are a total stranger. I have a fiancée, and we are about to get married. I would like to meet you to learn more about my past, but it’s going to be strictly a meeting between friends—no, acquaintances, nothing more. Do you understand?’ It was Kira’s turn to fall silent. ‘Well? Miss Hewitt?’ Kira sounded demoralised. ‘You used to speak that way to others,’ she said. ‘In that flat, unemotional voice. Devoid of fee