Modern Heart

It will take more than tough love to scare away the perfect guy . . .

My co-workers call me tough, and they're right. Rising to the position of Creative Director at one of Sydney's award-winning advertising agencies is not for the faint-hearted.

But try telling that to my girlfriends. They think I've got a softer side and are convinced they've found me the perfect guy—John Hart.

They should know better. I've always been open about my rules. I don't do relationships, I don't invite men home, and I never stay the night.

When John gets me an invitation from one of New York's leading galleries to exhibit my artwork, I don't know whether to kiss him or strangle him.

Kissing him is tempting, but I'm leaning towards strangling him because John thinks I've got the chance of turning my secret passion into a career.

Obviously, he's insane and he's not my perfect guy. My perfect guy wouldn't interfere in my life this way. Or ask me to risk the safety of my advertising career.

Then he accuses me of being scared. And I'm starting to wonder if maybe he's right . . .