Chapter 389

"Of course," I said and nodded at her. "Delighted, as always."

She smiled back. She was refined, poised, and very European. The height of elegance, I was curious to see if she would let down her bemused guard in the Hollywood & Vine setting. So far, she was the same as ever.

"Thank you," she said. "Likewise. And who is your friend?"

"Crystal, this is Stephen and Francesca, and this is Jeff," I introduced her.

Crystal was chewing gum and smoking a joint from a long cigarette holder.

"Nice to meet you," Jeff said with a presumptive nod, always the cool kid.

"I adore your costume," Francesca said. "The cigarette holder is perfection."

"Absolute perfection," Stephen said, taking her hand and letting it linger for a barely perceptible extra moment.

"Oh my god," Crystal said, "it’s so great to meet you. Do you want a hit?"