Page 56 of He's the One

“I said you were looking for an opportunity to work in a garden that left a lasting impression on visitors.”

“Right.”

“What skills or special abilities would you bring?”

“I’m very good at making tea and coffee.”

Theo mock-glared. “You have a sound horticultural background, skilled in project management, a passion for sustainable working and an enchanting personality who can inspire guests with your amazing knowledge of the garden.”

Col sucked air through his teeth. “I’m not going to get this job.”

“Of course, you will. There are no other applicants.”

Col laughed. “Was there even a job before you asked?”

Theo shrugged. “Where do you see yourself in five years’ time?”

“Happy, healthy and holidaying in the Med with a gorgeous guy.”

There was silence for a moment, then Theo whispered, “I like the Med.”

“I’ve never been.”

“Any questions?”

“How many days holiday? Is there private healthcare? What about a pension?”

Theo laughed. “Just say you’re good at doing what you’re told. Lie if you need to.”

“Are you good at doing what you’re told?” Col swallowed.

“Depends who’s doing the telling, depends on the circumstances.”

“No, then?”

Theo chuckled.

When they’d found a space in Marsden’s car park, Theo turned off the engine. “That’ll be fifty-two pounds twenty-three pence. Plus a very generous tip, guv.”

“Iamgoing to give you money for the fuel.”

Theo glared. “No, you are not. I was joking. And you paid for lunch. Not another word about it, okay?”

“I wish you could come in and meet Dominic. But even if he approved you to go on his list, you get sent a form to fill in and send back and it takes them another couple of weeks to confirm you’re a suitable visitor. Nothing happens quickly.”

“He wants to see you, not me. Do you want me to walk you to the door or are you okay?”

“I’m fine. Thank you for driving me.” Col opened the car door. “Sorry you have to wait out here.”

“Without your face to stare at, I’m going to make do with my book.”

Col had lost his smile by the time he reached the entrance. He checked in, relieved that they still had his details from when he’d last visited Dominic here. He went through all the security arrangements, stowed his mobile in a locker, then was X-rayed and patted down before being shown to the first waiting area. Finally, a staff member came to take him to a room on Dominic’s ward. As he walked down the corridor, Col spotted Dominic being searched in a side room, though his brother didn’t see him.

The security was understandable but it always freaked Col out. Dominic wasn’t even allowed to see him on his own. Someone had to be with them to ensure everyone’s safety—sigh—and to listen in to their conversation—another sigh. Which meant they both had to be careful what they said. They were only allowed to embrace at the beginning and the end of the visit. And not for too long or they’d be broken apart. That had happened a few times and Col wasn’t sure which of them had been clutching the hardest.

Col pushed to his feet when Dominic was escorted into the room by a guard, a big guy in his forties with a crewcut, and the guy who’d escorted Col left. It hadn’t been that long since Col had seen his brother, but Dominic looked thin and drawn, with dark rings under his eyes. They undoubtedly had him on a cocktail of drugs.

Dominic smiled when he saw him, then scowled when his gaze shifted to the dressings on Col’s head. Col stepped into his arms and hugged him. He felt Dominic push something down the front of his jeans as they moved apart. Col hoped no one had seen or they’d both be in trouble.

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