never about the money, though. I get fulfillment in making sure that no one leaves disappointed.”
Sloane could see why his guests were satisfied. She could probably learn a thing or two from him about that. And beyond the business side. Something told her that he was good at getting whatever—or whomever—he put his mind to.
“I’m glad that you put your guests first,” she said, sipping her drink.
Gene favored her with a straight look. “Don’t you?”
“Absolutely. As director of guest relations, it’s my job to cater to our guests’ needs and wants.”
He nodded. “From what I saw in the lobby, you have a lot of guests to please.”
Sloane grinned. “True, but I think I’m up to the task, even if at times some of them can be rather challenging.”
Gene laughed. “Tell me about it. That’s true whether you have many or hardly any guests. You just have to deal with them and keep a smile on your face.”
“I couldn’t have said it better myself,” Sloane admitted, breaking into a big smile, knowing he expected it.
“Have you had the chance to go to a Maui luau yet?” Gene asked, putting a napkin to his mouth.
“As a matter of fact, I haven’t. We have our own at the hotel, but between work and looking for a place to live, I haven’t had the time.”
“They have a great luau on Kaanapali Beach nightly. I was thinking about heading over there tonight and checking it out.” He peered at her through those deep eyes. “And I could definitely use some company.”
Sloane couldn’t escape the heat of his gaze. “Are you asking me out on a date?”
Gene angled his face. “Yeah, I am, if you can find the time in your busy schedule. I know it’s short notice, but you could probably use a break. I know I can. Also, it would give you a chance to see another part of Maui other than Wailea.”
Sloane had to admit that the man could be very persuasive in hitting the right notes. It did sound like fun, and she could use the distraction from what had quickly become her normal and demanding routine. Besides, she welcomed the opportunity to spend more quality time with someone who seemed as interested as she was. Not to mention sexy and extremely good-looking.
“You’re on,” she told him.
Gene smiled broadly. “Great. Where are you staying?”
“Temporarily, I’ve got a room here.” Sloane wished she had her own place instead of a hotel room. “The room was thrown in as part of the job.”
“I have a great suite available,” Gene offered, “should you need a respite from the noise, crowded elevators and touristy surroundings.”
Sloane wondered if he was referring to his private suite. She could only imagine what type of personal service she could get from him there. Or might it be beyond her vivid imagination?
“Thanks for letting me know,” she told him. “But I don’t expect to be here much longer than another day or two. I have a couple of places I’ll be looking at tomorrow.”
“That’s cool,” Gene said. “Just thought I’d put the invite out there.”
“It was sweet. Thank you.” Sloane gave him a sincere smile and glanced discreetly at her watch. “Well, I’d better be getting back to work.” Believe me, I wish I could stay longer to talk to you.
“Same here,” Gene said. “There’s always something that needs to be done at the house.”
After Sloane paid for the lunch, they walked out into the lobby.
“I’ll pick you up at seven,” Gene told her.
“I’ll be ready,” Sloane promised, even if she had a lot to do between then and now. It was worth making the time to have some fun with someone who was clearly interested in getting to know her. The feeling was mutual.
Sloane wasn’t sure if it would be awkward when they said their goodbyes. But Gene gave her a gentlemanly kiss on the cheek and was on his way without fanfare. She admired his firm and enviable backside for a moment before walking in the opposite direction. Sloane’s hand made its