Page 42 of Too Hard to Resist

Once I was in my room, I crashed on my bed and called Stella.

‘Hey!’ she answered. ‘You back from the excursion? Thanks for your feedback earlier. I sent the designs over to the Romance Library and they loved them!’

‘I knew they would,’ I said, mustering up as much enthusiasm as I could.

‘Wait, what’s wrong? You don’t sound like yourself.’

‘Edward’s left!’ I blurted out.

‘What the hell? What happened?’

After I’d finished explaining, Stella exhaled loudly.

‘Shit. I’m so sorry. At least you’ll get some money back and you’ll get to stay.’

‘I suppose. I’m not thrilled about spending the rest of the trip surrounded by a bunch of loved-up couples. But I was really looking forward to seeing more of Italy and this hotel is pretty amazing so I’m not ready to leave.’

‘You’re making the right decision to stay. There’s still a chance he’ll come back soon. Give him a few more days. How was it today by yourself?’

When I’d messaged Stella on the coach, apart from saying it was much better than I thought it would be, I didn’t go into detail about my time in Alberobello. I’d just focused on giving her feedback on her designs instead.

‘I didn’t end up being alone in the end. Romeo offered to walk around with me.’

‘The hot Love Alchemist?’

‘My very off-limits Love Alchemist, yes. He was actually really sweet. Not as grumpy and arrogant as I thought.’

‘That’s good! I’m glad you weren’t alone.’

‘I was too, but I felt bad that he had to babysit me. Bet he’s not happy about being lumbered with me again whilst Edward’s away.’

‘It’s his job. I’m sure he doesn’t mind.’

‘I…’ Just as I was about to tell Stella that I was worried about the sparks I’d felt, there was a knock at the door. It was for the best. I already felt bad about fancying Romeo, so I didn’t want Stella to think I was a terrible person too. ‘Hold on a sec.’

I jumped off the bed and headed to the door.

When I opened it and saw Romeo standing there, my eyes popped.

‘Ciao, Samantha.’ He flashed that hypnotic smile again and my stomach shamelessly flip-flopped like a dolphin on happy pills. ‘Do you have plans right now?’

‘Er… no?’

‘In that case, you have a luxury massage and facial booked in the spa, courtesy of the hotel. We are very sorry for what you have had to go through. I know pampering cannot solve the issue, but I hope that it will make you feel better. What do you think?’

‘Hell, yeah!’ I shouted.

‘So, you hate the idea?’ Romeo laughed and those pesky flutters started again.

‘Hours of pampering in a luxury spa? It soundshorrendous!’ I joked. ‘But if I say no, you’ll get in trouble, so yet again, I’ll agree, just to help you out.’

‘Grazie. How will I ever repay you for your kindness?’

‘I’m sure I could think of something.’ I winked then slapped my forehead. ‘Sorry,’ I winced. That sounded sexual and as I reminded myself earlier, my mind was supposed to only contain pure, moral thoughts. ‘That came out wrong. Foot-in-mouth-itus strikes again! Can you give me ten minutes?’

‘Sure. Go to the spa whenever you are ready. Your Relaxation Facilitator will be there waiting for you. Enjoy your treatments.’

‘Grazie! I will.’ I shut the door, let out a happy squeal then ran back to the phone. ‘Stell? You still there?’

---