"Thank you," Tanya said, her eyes lowered to her plate. "Kevin is a good subject."
"Does he pose well? Or often?"
"Thirty seconds at a sitting," Tanya said, laughing. She glanced up at Luigi Amedeo. "He's very impatient, and tires much too easily." She noted Luigi Amedeo's elegant looks and refined manners. His eyes seemed to cover everything in the room, and in particular, seemed to cover her.
"As I mentioned to Kevin yesterday, I would like to have a portrait made for my Roman residence. I wonder if you would be interested in painting it," Luigi Amedeo said.
"I really don't know," Tanya said, anxiety coloring her words. "I've never worked for hire before."
"Ah, but you don't have to give me an answer now. Here's my card. Contact me at your leisure, when you feel you might have the time." Luigi Amedeo gave her a business card decorated with the coat of arms of the Monteturros on one side, and on the other, his name and the address. "In my house in Rome, I have an entire wing for guests. You would be very welcome, free to come and go as you please. I could be your guide to visit the city." His deep, mysterious eyes searched hers. "There is so much to see over there."
"Thank you. For the invitation, and for the job offer. I'll consider them both." Tanya looked from Luigi Amedeo to Kevin, then looked down into her clasped hands, folded in her lap. Her anxiety caused her to shake slightly. She glanced quickly at Kevin again as Marta entered to announce a telephone call.
"Will you take the call here?" Marta asked.
"No, I'll take it in the studio," Kevin answered. Tanya's throat tightened. She would be alone with Luigi Amedeo.
But he showed himself to be an interesting and interested guest, discussing wines and local vineyards. When Kevin returned, Tanya showed her relief.
"Kevin, I really must be going. I'll leave you gentlemen to your business." She smiled at Luigi Amedeo, who stood and smiled in return. "It was a pleasure meeting you, Mr. di Monteturro."
"The pleasure, Madam, was indeed mine," Luigi Amedeo said. He bowed slightly.
"I'll see you to the door, Tanya," Kevin said. At the door, he kissed the tip of her nose and gave her a hug. "Thank you for staying, little love. I'll call you after he leaves."