บท 22: Acquaintance

- Hello Aurora, could you give me a few minutes? - Cal approached her as they came down from the stage.

- Yeah, I'd love to. Did you want to participate in the charity rides?

- Maybe I'll ride with you in the future, but for now I want to give you this," Cal held out an envelope of money, "I love what you do, especially your unique approach. Please stay the course. I'm sure that's where the benefits lie.

Reaching for the envelope and keeping her gaze fixed on the pale gray eyes, Aurora felt a semblance of threat coming from Cal and immediately returned her hand to its original position.

- What is it? - Using feminine wiles, she asked.

- Earrings, necklaces, dresses, shoes, or home improvements, clothes and food for the kids. I guess that's up to you. - Cal said in a sharp tone.

The phrase sounded like an insult to her, but there was common sense in it, too. Perhaps more than Aurora would have liked.

- Excuse me, may I ask your name?

- My name is Cal.