Page 43 of Too Hard to Resist

‘Oh my God, was that your Romeo?’

‘He’s notmyRomeo! But yes, that was my Love Alchemist.’

‘His accent is fucking dreamy! And you two seemed to get on well. Do you have any photos of him?’

‘No, course not! Why would I? I’m here forEdward.’

‘Oh, yeah. I forgot about him. Just likeheforgot aboutyou. Arsehole.’

‘Stell!’ I gasped. ‘You can’t call him that. He’s got a family emergency! His poor granny could be ill in hospital. Where’s your heart?’

‘It only takes two seconds to message to let you know.’

‘He was probably stressed because he was racing to the airport.’

‘Whatever. Still think he’s rude. I don’t like it when people don’t treat my bestie with the respect she deserves. But men who organise a massage and facial for herandhave a knicker-melting, sexy Italian accent get a big thumbs up!’

‘He’s just doing his job!’ I rolled my eyes. ‘His boss Victoria probably ordered him to butter me up so I don’t go on social media and rant. Romeo’s just the messenger. I’d better go. Glad that the designs were a hit with your new client too.’

‘Thanks. Call me tomorrow, or when you have any news onEvasive Edward.’

As I hung up, my shoulders loosened.

Being left alone by my perfect match wasn’t how I would’ve chosen my day to start. But being indulged with a luxury massage and facial wasn’t a bad way to end it.

18

SAMMIE

It was now Tuesday and I was in my room getting ready to go on today’s excursion to a secret destination.

There was still no news from Edward, but right now I was too relaxed to care. The massage and facial Romeo had arranged for me yesterday was out of this world.

My Relaxation Facilitator (another crazy job title) had magic hands. During those treatments, all of the stress and worries about being here on my own, what would happen with Edward and everything else melted away.

Once my treatments ended, I floated back to my room. And you could’ve knocked me over with a feather when I saw the bottle of my new favourite prosecco chilling in an ice bucket, next to a box of fancy chocolates, a bouquet of stunning flowers and a card from Victoria and Romeo apologising for the inconvenience.

Talk about knowing how to make a girl feel special.

Romeo had also called to ask if I’d prefer to have room service for dinner, which was kind because I didn’t fancy eating alone in the restaurant.

After I’d finished gushing about how amazing the spa was and thanking Romeo, he’d said the chef could make whatever I wanted so I’d ordered spaghetti Bolognese and gelato.

One benefit of Edward leaving was that I didn’t have anyone judging my portion sizes. And eating in my room meant I didn’t have to worry about getting tomato sauce down my chin. Every cloud had a silver lining.

Yep.That pamper sesh worked wonders. I felt much more positive.

Other than a quick wave, I hadn’t spoken to Romeo this morning. Thanks to the massage and sleeping on the bed that was handcrafted by angels, I’d slept through my alarm so hadn’t even had time to grab breakfast at the restaurant, so I’d eaten a banana from the fruit bowl in my room instead.

Just as I was about to leave, my phone rang.

‘Hi, Jasmine,’ I said, surprised that she was calling me directly. Normally we spoke through Stella.

‘Hi, Sammie, how are you doing? I heard what happened with your match. I’m so sorry. Fingers crossed he’ll be back soon.’

‘Yeah.’ I blew out a breath. ‘I was a bit apprehensive about going on yesterday’s trip alone and the trip today, but Romeo’s been really sweet.’

‘Romeo?’ she said, her voice tinged with concern. ‘I didn’t realise he was still there.’

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