Nineteen

Torry had come by Andrea's booth after the first day in Coral Gables to walk with her to the parking lot. She wasn't there. He found her in a booth not far away engrossed in a conversation with another watercolorist, a nice looking man her own age. Torry was cordial enough when Andrea introduced them, but after a few moments of small talk, he was anxious to get away. He put his arm around Andrea's shoulders, then reached down and squeezed her breast.

"Let's go, baby," he said. "I've got plans for you."

Andrea's face reddened; she was sure the other man saw it and that Torry had done it for his benefit.

She was speechless for a moment, but smiled weakly, saying, "I'll see you tomorrow, Tom." Andrea was silent as she returned to her booth with Torry to secure things for the night, and didn't speak again until they were walking toward the parking lot.

"What was that about back there. You embarrassed me, Torry."

"Just wanted to give the man something to think about," he said. "He was coming on to you, you know." Torry put his arm around Andrea, glancing at her as they walked. "But then you do look pretty hot."

Andrea was as confused by his response as she had been stunned by his behavior. Did Torry think she had been flirting with Tom? She turned to Torry when they reached the pickup. "You know I'm not interested in other men. It was just innocent talk."