Page 23 of Another Lucky Number

I glance helplessly at Cat, who simply offers me an encouraging smile. ‘Well, I guess I’ll… um… read through the job description, prepare using the interview themes and the presentation brief—’

‘Blah, blah, yawn.’ Amber pulls a bored face. ‘That’s what everyone else will have done. What about how you’re going to show your understanding of the company? You’re here – right in it – so you need to use that competitive advantage and draw from the experience.’

‘That’s a good point, I never thought of that. Although I haven’t had much time to think about anything yet.’

‘And remember, he’ll be zoning in on how you act in that interview as well, not just the answers you give.’

‘Oh yeah, the behavioural side of things that he mentioned. I have to admit, I was finding it hard to focus on what he was saying so some of it passed me by.’

‘Understandable. He is smokin’ hot. But now you need to pull your head out your arse and focus.’

‘Shit, you’re so right.’ I stand up absently and lean on the balcony railing. ‘This will be one tough process, which means I’m going to need all the help I can get. OK, Amber, you’re hired.’

‘Awesome.’ Amber high fives an unprepared Cat, whonarrowly avoids a smack in the face. ‘Finally, you’re my bitch. Emma, how do you feel?’

‘Actually, I feel marginally less nauseous. That’s got to be a good thing.’

‘What about me?’ says Cat. ‘What’s my role in this? I want to be involved.’

‘Yeah, totally.’ I nod enthusiastic agreement. ‘Cat’s done really well in her career, Amber. She can be your wing-woman.’

‘Fine by me.’ Amber shrugs. ‘But remember that I’m in charge and that I get the final say. We’ll pull a plan together tomorrow morning, once you have the info, then we can start putting you through your paces after lunch.’

‘Oh, honey, this is so exciting for you,’ says Cat. ‘We’ll be a great team. Bag you the job of your dreams.’

‘Let’s not get ahead of ourselves,’ I warn her. ‘But thank you so much, both of you. You have no idea how much I need your support.’

I grin at my two friends, and for the first time since Sébastien told me I have three days to prepare, I feel like I might have a chance at this.

A while later, I’m getting ready for bed in my suite when my phone pings. Plucking it from my bedside table, I feel a similar adolescent rush of excitement to the previous night – because, of course, it’s James.

Good night? Bet it was more exciting than mine. I hate packing. x

My feeling of elation is snuffed out in an instant when I realise that I can’t tell him about my evening. Not the full technicolour version anyway. I think carefully for a moment, then tap out a responseI consider to be honest, without giving away my original intentions for the evening.

Hi. Yes, really good night, thanks. Went for a meal on a fancy estate and took a moonlit walk in some beautiful gardens. You’re up early again. Is it today you leave for your own trip? x

I’m keen to move the conversion away from me. James, however, is not.

That sounds romantic. Kind of hoping you and your friends have one of those weirdly close friendships… x

I give an uncomfortable chuckle, amused by his humour, but equally aware that he’s sensed something, even within the limited information I’ve shared.Bugger. I don’t want him to think I’m having a holiday fling, especially as I have no intention of doing that – not anymore anyway. Sticking with the light-hearted tone, I add a touch of reassurance, so he knows there’s nothing to worry about.

We are strangely close, the three of us. Don’t worry, I’m only looking for rest and relaxation here – no room for that sort of complication. Plus, I’m saving myself for a date with a hot man when I get home… x

I’ve intentionally left out the whole job interview thing because I’m already feeling the pressure and don’t want to add to it. Also, I don’t want James to think I’m a loser if I’m unsuccessful, and if by some miracle I do get the job, I’ll have one hell of a talking point for our next date.

Ping. I lift my phone again.

I know I have no claim whatsoever, but I’m relieved that you justenjoy a slightly inappropriate level of intimacy with your girlfriends. Nothing wrong with that. In fact, I completely approve. x

I laugh out loud, rolling my eyes, and compose my equally predictable response – an essential part of the flirty banter.

You’re such a typical bloke! There was me thinking you were different. Hey, you haven’t answered my question yet. When do you leave for your own holiday? I don’t even know where you’re headed…? x

There’s a pause and I’m wondering if he’s going to reply, when his response appears on my phone.

Sorry, got distracted by mental images of your girly threesome. Actually, preceding blokey rhetoric aside, I think I am different. Like vintage wine – classy and worth the wait. Although maybe you won’t appreciate that with the way you drink it… I do indeed leave today. Off to the east coast of the US with my mates. Ten days of beer and banter. Can’t wait. x

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