It was 7:45 p.m. Tabitha adjusted her blouse as she approached the main entryway of Vikram’s beach house, the smell of the ocean filling her nose with a warm breeze. He met her at the door, a heavy book beneath his left arm, his sliver-black hair moist from a recent swim. He placed the book on a nearby bench, reached over and kissed her on the cheek. She closed her eyes and breathed in his cologne, finding herself unexpectedly drawn to him as he pulled away.

“I’m so glad you were able to come, Tabitha. I was beginning to think you may have had second thoughts.”

“I’m sorry I was late. I had to take care of a few things,” she said.

“Yes, no problem at all – right this way. Would you like some tea?”

“Yes, thank you, Vikram. Oh, and don’t forget your book. Hey, it’s heavy. What is it about?” she asked.

“Thank you,” he said, taking the book from her as they walked into the kitchen. “It is about the law of attraction – very interesting. Have you heard of this law?” He asked, walking her out to the balcony.