Page 61 of Code Name: Typhon

“Interesting. I’ll admit I hadn’t thought of it. But since you did…” I winked and set two of the platters I’d had one of the Quinta Do Lago restaurants deliver in anticipation of our arrival. In the same way I’d requested the bath be filled and heated, I expected the pool would be as well.

“Wow,” Eliza exclaimed. “This looks fabulous.”

I’d requested a selection of chilled seafood, along with cheeses, cured meats, fruit, and freshly made bread.

“Would you care for a glass of wine?” I asked, pulling out a bottle of rosé.

“I’d love it. Anything I can do to help?”

“Would you prefer to sit inside or out?”

El shivered. “While warmer than Brighton, I fear it’s still a bit chilly for me.”

“How did you manage in Edinburgh?”

“Down jackets, jumpers, corduroy trousers, heavy socks, boots, and then when I ventured out of doors…”

My eyes met hers, and she winked.

Eliza ate as voraciously as she had at breakfast, but still consumed only a quarter of what I had.

“How do you stay so fit?” she asked when I leaned against the chair and rubbed my stomach.

“There is a full gym downstairs. I make good use of it when I’m here.”

“And when you’re not?”

“There’s also one in my flat in London, although not quite as big.”

“Are women allowed in your workout room?”

I leaned forward and wove my fingers with hers. “Only one woman.”

She raised a brow.

“I’ve never brought anyone else here, Eliza. Until I met you, I doubted I ever would.”

“And now that I’ve broken the place in?”

“We’ll spend our time here making this as much yours as it is mine.”

The playful expression left her face, and I squeezed her fingers. “I can’t help it. Once I find something I want, I’m relentless. In this case, it’s someone rather than something.”

She pulled her hand from mine, but she didn’t appear angry, only thoughtful.

“Once you get what you want, what happens?”

“I keep her forever.”

“I’ve another question,” she said.

“Go ahead.”

“Why do you call this Casa Melro?”

“Tomorrow, I’ll take you up to the roof, and you will have your answer.” I took a deep breath. “El?”

She’d been looking out at the pool but turned to me. “Yes?”

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