Page 18 of Reunited By the Greek's Baby

‘Excellent.’

He flashed a spontaneous smile and for a moment she was transported back to that tiny dot of land in the Aegean that held one small village, an archaeological site, some olive and pistachio groves, and the secluded little house they’d shared for a short time. When life had seemed glorious with happiness and possibility. Because of Theo.

Heat suffused her, the warmth of wellbeing and excitement. But only for a second, until her brain kicked into gear and reality crashed down.

She scowled and looked away, reaching for a carafe of water and pouring a glass. From her peripheral vision she saw his face settle into stark lines.

Had he expected to win her over with a smile? Fat chance.

‘Are you eating too?’

‘When you’ve decided what you want.’

Like a waiter, he ran through the menu, lifting off lid after lid so the room filled with tantalising aromas. To her amazement, Isla found herself salivating. It all looked and smelled wonderful.

There were no local takeaway outlets that served food like this. Each dish looked exquisite. ‘Where did this come from?’

Theo named a luxury hotel in central London, known the world over. The sort of place Isla would never even consider entering. Startled, she looked up to meet his unreadable stare. Was she supposed to be impressed that he’d spent so much? But then he was one of the richest men in Europe.

Her jaw clenched as she recalled how he’d kept that little fact from her in Greece.

Had he been afraid that if she found out she’d have expected expensive gifts? Or was it that he’d preferred to play a role, slumming it with the naïve foreign student for a few weeks before returning to his pampered, privileged life?

‘I thought, with an upset stomach, you wouldn’t appreciate a greasy takeaway. That’s all that was on offer locally.’

His words cut through her bitter thoughts, and he was right. This food actually tempted her to eat. His thoughtfulness and the trouble he’d gone to surprised her. Until she remembered his words about doing the right thing. That he no doubt saw it as his duty to ensure the woman carrying his baby ate.

It wouldn’t be a good look if she collapsed from malnutrition.

‘What’s so funny?’

Isla shook her head. ‘Nothing.’ She paused. ‘Thank you. This was very kind of you.’

She caught him watching her but chose not to meet his eyes. Instead she scooped up some fragrant lemony chicken and a selection of glistening chargrilled vegetables. Only as she began to eat did he help himself to a rich casserole of beef and mushrooms.

Isla swallowed a mouthful then paused, waiting. The feast before her was like a sensual overload, all looking delicious, all smelling fantastic. But she’d learned to be cautious and see if her stomach rebelled.

‘What’s the matter? It’s not to your taste?’

That sounded like genuine concern. ‘No, it’s lovely.’ She swallowed another forkful.

The other kitchen chair creaked as Theo leaned back. ‘Good, I’m glad.’

It was more than good, it was delicious. The tastiest thing she’d eaten in she couldn’t remember how long. Her lips quirked in a rueful smile as she surveyed her emptying plate. Clearly there was something to be said for having a fortune to spend on meals you didn’t feel like preparing yourself.

They ate in silence and Isla felt herself gradually relaxing with each slow mouthful. If she didn’t look at the big, handsome man across from her, she could almost enjoy herself. The glorious food which for once she was able to keep down. The end of the day with no more chores to be done. The cosy sense of warmth and comfort.

She blinked and stiffened. No, it couldn’t be that she felt that way because Theo was here in her home. Because, despite knowing he wasn’t for her, part of her still longed for him.

The idea appalled her and she hurried into speech. ‘I don’t understand how you can accept this as your child so easily.’

Theo’s cutlery clattered onto his plate. ‘You don’t? You’d prefer it if I accused you of lying?’

There was an edge to his voice, as if she’d annoyed him.

Isla finished chewing and swallowing before meeting his stare. Sure enough the gleam in his eyes showed he wasn’t as sanguine as he’d appeared earlier.

‘Of course not. But it seems so unlikely. Remember I know the type of man you are and the sort of world you live in.’ Frowning, he opened his mouth as if to take issue and she hurried on. ‘Don’t forget your lawyer had me sign away my right to tell anyone that we knew each other. Not that that was a loss. It’s a period in my life I definitely won’t be sharing with anyone.’

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