Lena had to admit she was enjoying her evening with Gage McCotter. For a short time, she had momentarily forgotten about the event before dinner. Perhaps it was because Gage had insisted they not discuss the subject. He had said such table conversation was bad for the digestion. Instead, they had talked about art, music, theatre, and politics. The problem was Lena was becoming more attracted to the man. She had to remind herself again that she was not out on a date. She couldn’t think of him as an attractive, sexy man, but a client, and business associate.

"Tell me about being an International Consultant," Gage said. He lifted a bite of chicken to his lips. "I take it you like what you do."

Lena pushed aside her distracting thoughts of Gage. Discussing her job would be a good way to redirect her attention to other matters. The change in topic would also give her the chance to display her knowledge of the profession. She placed her fork on her plate and smiled brightly.

"I love my work," she began. "I’ve always been interested in language and other cultures. Each country has unique customs and ways of interacting within their societies."

Gage stopped eating to take a sip of wine. His dark eyes gazed speculatively over the rim of the glass. "You decided to discover a way to make a living studying about cultures."

"You’d be surprised how many people need my expertise in today’s business world," Lena continued enthusiastically. "Business is global. Company executives travel abroad and speak with foreign reps on the phone. Using the wrong word in an e-mail could jeopardize a deal."

"NST Technology is certainly global." Gage took another drink from his glass. "That’s why I need to work with you. I’m familiar with the general customs of some of our clients, but it’s the subtleties in behavior and speech I’m worried about."

"I commend you for recognizing your need for an International Consultant." Lena scooted forward in her chair. "Americans can be at a disadvantage when they begin working internationally. Most don’t have the experience interacting with other cultures that Asians, Europeans and South Americans do."

"Are we known for our faux pas?" Gage said with amusement.

Lena smiled when she recalled stories her professor would use for case studies. She was always amazed how often an innocent error could turn into a major embarrassment.

"Different cultures may accept mistakes made by foreigners," she said. "I always tell my clients, however, that if they’re going to get involved in international business, they need to become familiar with the country’s customs, language and behavior."

"I take it," Gage grinned, "I’d better pay close attention to your instruction."

"See that you do." She couldn’t help but return his smile. He was oozing charm.

"How was your dinner?" Gage nodded towards Lena’s half empty plate.

She glanced down at the bits of untouched shrimp and fruit salad. "The shrimp was wonderful," she assured him. "I just don’t eat much in one sitting."

"No wonder you are in such good shape." Gage lowered his voice, which was deep and glazed with unspoken invitation. "You are really quite lovely in that dress tonight."

She could feel his eyes on her. A sudden warmth infused her cheeks. Lena was grateful for the shadowed lighting of the restaurant. She lifted her eyes to meet the gentle caress of his gaze.

"Thank you," she said softly.

Lena dimly became aware of the sultry lure of a saxophone. The smoky velvety rhythms from the piano mingled to weave a spell of sudden longing. She wanted to feel the strength and heat of another.

"I know our association is a business one…but you need to know one thing about me." He tossed his napkin on the table. "I never hesitate to go after what I want."

Lena sensed, more than heard, Gage rise from his chair to stand next to her. She slowly looked up and saw everything in his face. At that moment, he wanted her softness, her fragrance, just her. He reached down and slipped his hand into her smaller one.

One corner of his lips raised in a heart-stopping smile. "Can I have this dance, Ms. Hanson?"

Foreign Affair-14  >>>