“Oh, really?” I asked. I couldn’t bear to imagine Alexander with any other girl than me. I felt a sword of jealousy pierce straight through my heart.

“Something about long hair and being an artist,” Sebastian added.

I bit my black lip. Alexander shot Sebastian a cold stare.

“Maybe we should go,” I said.

“Don’t worry,” Sebastian said sweetly. “He broke many hearts. That’s why I had to check out the girl who made him stay. Most keep him running.”

I felt relieved and flattered at the same time.

“So what about you?” I asked. “Where is your girlfriend?”

“Me?” he asked. “I don’t have one.”

“I figured with all your travels…,” I said.

“True love has always eluded me,” he confessed. He spoke in a charming and intimate tone, as if he was baring his heart for the first time.

“So, what are you looking for?” I asked.

“Someone kind, sincere, and captivating. Someone unlike anyone else I’ve ever met.”

“Someone like Raven?” Alexander said proudly, giving me a gentle squeeze.

“Yes, just like Raven.” Sebastian grinned. “But without the artistic boyfriend.”

“Then I’m sure you will find her,” I reassured him.

Sebastian gazed at me with a stare so bold, yet sincere, that tiny hairs rose on the back of my neck. “I haven’t found her yet. But I’m hoping my true love is closer than I think.”

“Well, I hope you find her soon,” I said.

Alexander switched off the game and TV. “Let’s get something to eat.”

We all rose and collected our things. As Alexander returned the remote to the TV stand, Sebastian leaned toward me so closely his goatee brushed softly against my cheek. “I hope I find her soon, too, Raven.” He whispered in my ear with such intensity that chills raced down my spine. “I’m starved to death.”