Around the World with My Ex: Travel round the world with the latest book from bestselling author Maxine Morrey!

Around the World with My Ex: Travel round the world with the latest book from bestselling author Maxine Morrey! Maxine Morrey It’s the trip of a lifetime – with just one catch! Aspiring travel writer Mia Walker dreams of covering dream destinations for a living. So when she’s offered the chance to write a romantic travel piece, taking in turquoise oceans, tropical beaches, and a fairy-tale Scottish wedding, she knows it’s the opportunity she’s been waiting for.It’s the trip of a lifetime… but it comes with a catch. The photographer who’ll be travelling with her is Hunter Scott, who Mia last saw five years ago – when she ended their engagement!Mia knows she’d be mad to say no – even if it does mean traveling the world with the one man she never wanted to see again! But, whether it’s the stunning locations or the wedding on the horizon, Mia soon finds herself wishing she hadn’t cancelled her own engagement after all…If you’re dreaming of sipping cocktails from a pineapple surrounded by palm trees and flamingos don’t miss Maxine Morrey’s gorgeously uplifting summer romance, perfect for fans of Holly Martin and Jo Watson.Previously published as The Christmas Holiday It’s the trip of a lifetime – with just one catch! Aspiring travel writer Mia Walker dreams of covering dream destinations for a living. So when she’s offered the chance to write a romantic travel piece, taking in turquoise oceans, tropical beaches, and a fairytale Scottish wedding, she knows it’s the opportunity she’s been waiting for. It’s the trip of a lifetime… but it comes with a catch. The photographer who’ll be travelling with her is Hunter Scott, who Mia last saw five years ago – when she ended their engagement! Mia knows she’d be mad to say no – even if it does mean traveling the world with the one man she never wanted to see again! But, whether it’s the stunning locations or the wedding on the horizon, Mia soon finds herself wishing she hadn’t cancelled her own engagement after all… It you’re dreaming of sipping cocktails from a pineapple surrounded by palm trees and flamingos don’t miss Maxine Morrey’s gorgeously uplifting summer romance, perfect for fans of Holly Martin and Jo Watson. Previously published as The Christmas Holiday Around the World With My Ex Maxine Morrey ONE PLACE. MANY STORIES An imprint of HarperCollinsPublishers Ltd. 1 London Bridge Street London SE1 9GF First published in Great Britain by HQ in 2017 Copyright © Maxine Morrey 2017 Maxine Morrey asserts the moral right to be identified as the author of this work. A catalogue record for this book is available from the British Library. This novel is entirely a work of fiction. The names, characters and incidents portrayed in it are the work of the author’s imagination. Any resemblance to actual persons, living or dead, events or localities is entirely coincidental. All rights reserved under International and Pan-American Copyright Conventions. By payment of the required fees, you have been granted the non-exclusive, non-transferable right to access and read the text of this e-book on-screen. No part of this text may be reproduced, transmitted, downloaded, decompiled, reverse engineered, or stored in or introduced into any information storage and retrieval system, in any form or by any means, whether electronic or mechanical, now known or hereinafter invented, without the express written permission of HarperCollins. E-book Edition © September 2017 ISBN: 978-0-00-824887-1 Version: 2018-04-20 MAXINE MORREY has wanted to be a writer for as long as she can remember and wrote her first (very short) book for school when she was ten. Coming in first, she won a handful of book tokens – best prize ever at the time! As time went by, she continued to write, but “normal” work often got in the way. Finally, she decided to go for it, and wrote. Really wrote. And after a while she had a bunch of articles, and a non-fiction book to her name. But her first love is novels, and, in August 2015, Maxine got the call to say she had won Carina UK’s “Write Christmas” competition, with her romantic comedy Winter’s Fairytale. Maxine lives on the south coast of England, and when not wrangling with words, can be found tackling her To Be Read pile, sewing, listening to podcasts, and walking. Twitter @Scribbler_Maxi Instagram @Scribbler_Maxi Facebook www.facebook.com/MaxineMorreyAuthor (http://www.facebook.com/MaxineMorreyAuthor) Pinterest @ScribblerMaxi Website www.scribblermaxi.co.uk (http://www.scribblermaxi.co.uk) Thank you, as always, to James who continually believes in me and doesn’t mind a bit that the whole housework routine thing has now gone completely out of the window. Thanks to Clio, Nia and all the team at HQ for helping me bring another story into the world. Also, a massive thank you to the fantastic book bloggers out there who have given their time to read and review and helped bring my books to notice. I really can’t thank them enough. They do a brilliant job – all unpaid – and their beautiful, thoughtful reviews have made me cry more than once. I am fearful of listing all of those who I refer to here in case I miss anyone, but I hope that they know who they are. You are all superstars. And most of all, thanks to you, lovely reader. There is such a huge and wonderful choice of books out there and I am eternally grateful that you chose to spend precious time and money on one of mine. Hearing that I’ve brought a smile (and sometimes a tear) to someone is an amazing feeling and also incredibly humbling. Thank you so much. Your support and enthusiasm means more than you could ever know. If you have enjoyed this, or any of my books, I’d be so grateful if you are able to take a few moments to pop up a short review on Amazon. It really does help to spread the word and helps me to keep writing more books. Lastly, I really do love hearing from readers. All my social media links are below so please do say hi! Twitter @Scribbler_Maxi Contents Cover (#u497bd0a1-2ad9-5b2a-a638-380ed297e522) Blurb (#u5b24203d-3054-569a-bd53-61eb147464d4) Title Page (#ucd97daeb-3156-5823-901e-940ac62116d6) Copyright (#ufc8025bd-2dc7-58a1-8c1b-fc4e7c8666ce) Author Bio (#ua1589185-9160-54cb-b797-2ef5a7d1bf9b) Acknowledgements (#u2978f5db-ca6a-563c-aebe-80d689be7390) Chapter One (#ulink_de3c441b-e96e-55dc-8292-8793f1729cfe) Chapter Two (#ulink_e6065c3f-c294-5d9c-abb1-e5feebd30b0c) Chapter Three (#ulink_f26a20bd-8bfc-5d30-9e43-bfacdd3af9e9) Chapter Four (#ulink_30fea7ea-5809-56d7-9fdb-6d9eae94eabf) Chapter Five (#ulink_22c3a931-58ad-5cf7-8825-fa027f4fd60f) Chapter Six (#ulink_897c9bbc-792d-561d-9f97-17494d46c98d) Chapter Seven (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Eight (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Nine (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Ten (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Eleven (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Twelve (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Thirteen (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Fourteen (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Fifteen (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Sixteen (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Seventeen (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Eighteen (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Nineteen (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Twenty (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Twenty One (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Twenty Two (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Twenty Three (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter Twenty Four (#litres_trial_promo) Excerpt (#litres_trial_promo) Endpages (#litres_trial_promo) Advert (#litres_trial_promo) About the Publisher (#litres_trial_promo) Chapter One (#ulink_e7892f5f-3bac-5111-9a89-7037bed155b0) ‘Take a seat, Mia.’ My boss, Jeremy, waved at the chair opposite his desk. I took it, trying to read his face in order to assess whether this was going to be a good or bad experience. I got nothing so I smiled, sat down and hoped for the best. ‘As you know, Olivia, my daughter, is getting married this Christmas.’ I nodded, still smiling. ‘I do, boss, and I can assure you I’ll write the best piece I’ve ever done for her special day.’ I tried to come across as genuine without sounding like a suck-up. To my ears, it didn’t seem to be working but he waved my comment away and didn’t throw out one of his verbal barbs like he normally did if he thought someone was trying to pull something – and I liked him for it. Jeremy was a good boss. He was tough and didn’t take crap from anyone. He’d tell you when you’d done a good job and didn’t hold back when he thought you could do better. ‘Yeah, yeah, I know that. You know you’d be out on your arse if you didn’t and you’re a bright girl, so…’ He did a palms-up kind of gesture to punctuate his statement. ‘This isn’t about that. That’s a given. This is a different assignment.’ My heart sped along a couple of beats. I’d been working on the ‘Hatches, Matches and Despatches’ section of the national weekend paper for the last three years. Our publication was unusual in that we still produced an actual weddings section, and despite the popular cynicism about marriage, readership figures for it continued to be high so it certainly seemed we were doing something right. Although my own life hadn’t exactly taken the route of skipping down a rose petal-strewn path, I enjoyed my job and loved the heartfelt feedback we received, both from the couples featured, and from readers. But I was ready to move on, and my real goal was to write for the travel section. Unfortunately, I wasn’t the only one with that ambition. There were an awful lot of people after that particular glittering prize and the current resident writers and freelancers guarded their posts jealously. Understandably. ‘Olivia and Sandeep are planning this big trip in the run-up to the wedding and now they’ve decided they want it documented.’ And like most young, rich and beautiful women, what Olivia wanted, she tended to get. ‘Bit last-minute, I know, but there we are.’ ‘Right,’ I replied, slightly confused. If this was a travel piece, there were plenty of other journos he could use. With the exception of a couple of pieces on rural getaways in Norfolk earlier in the year, my portfolio of travel cuttings was pretty thin. Jeremy knew my goals – the original position I’d applied for had been travel writer. But I knew I’d only got that other assignment because the regular contributor had had “a prior commitment”. Privately, I knew that “commitment” was merely a commitment never to go to Norfolk if he could help it, accustomed as he was to such destinations as the Seychelles and Martinique. Luckily, I had no such prejudices. I’d had a brilliant time and absolutely loved writing the pieces. Jeremy had been pleased but nothing more had come my way – excepting a few dagger looks from the writer who’d supposedly been unavailable and who would have preferred me to have fallen flat on my literary face. Jeremy leaned back in his expensive, custom-made leather chair and looked at me. ‘I want you to do it. More precisely, Olivia wants you to do it.’ ‘You do? She does?’ Having never actually met Olivia, I was a little surprised to discover she even knew I existed. ‘She reads the wedding section religiously every Saturday. Absolutely loves it.’ ‘Oh! Right. Wow. That’s…very flattering.’ ‘It’s not flattering, it’s the truth. You’re a good writer and Liv knows good writing when she sees it.’ ‘But this would be more of a travel piece?’ ‘I suppose you could call it that, to an extent.’ I caught sight of one of the resident travel writers wandering past the glass walls of Jeremy’s office looking tanned and relaxed. As he should be, having spent most of the morning regaling us all with tales of his latest assignment at a luxury resort in Mauritius. Smug didn’t even begin to cover it. Jeremy followed my gaze. ‘He’s not still banging on about Mauritius, is he?’ I set my expression to non-committal. Jeremy smirked. ‘Right. Very diplomatic, Mia.’ He shrugged. ‘He’s a pain in the arse, but he writes really good copy.’ ‘That’s what it’s all about.’ I acknowledged the bare truth of it all before looking back at my boss. ‘But you don’t want him on this assignment because…’ ‘This isn’t for the paper. It’s a private job and I want people on it who I trust. You’re going to have a level of access to my daughter that others might find tempting to use as a means of furthering their own career. People in this business can be pretty cutthroat. You know that. If someone thinks they can get something on the daughter of an internationally prominent media tycoon… Isn’t that what they call me?’ He pulled a face. ‘Anyway, getting to me via Liv? They know it’ll sell papers and magazines. It doesn’t matter that I might have given them their first break, or took them out for a ridiculously overpriced dinner the last time they were in town. They know what opportunities and financial reward this sort of access might offer them. And I won’t lie – it’s a hell of a lot more than I’ll be paying you for the job. But I’m asking you not only because Olivia – and I – love your writing, but because I know that, out of all the people I work with, you’re one of the few I’d trust with a secret. And about the only one I’d trust with my daughter’s privacy.’ I looked up, suddenly and very unexpectedly, feeling a little emotional. Jeremy screwed up his face. ‘Oh shit. You’re not going to cry, are you?’ ‘No! Of course I’m not! I was just… well, thank you. For what you said.’ He nodded gruffly, and continued. ‘So. I’ll get Liv to email you the plans. All the flights and hotels and whatnot are booked. I took the liberty of already telling her you’d take the job. There’s a table booked for the four of you tonight at seven-thirty at The Ivy, I understand. Liv and Sandy will fill you in on everything about what they want then.’ ‘The Ivy? The four of us?’ ‘Yep. Been there?’ I shook my head. ‘You’ll like it. Food’s good. And yes, the four of you – obviously there’s a photographer joining you.’ ‘Oh! Of course.’ I wondered which of the photographers we used would be coming and crossed my fingers it wasn’t Roaming Hands Richard. Jeremy seemed to read my mind. ‘Don’t worry, it’s not Dick.’ I tried to stifle the smile but my boss saw and his mouth twitched. We all knew it drove Richard up the wall being called “Dick” which was exactly why Jeremy did it. That, and because he knew his reputation. He only ever used him when he was desperate and when the journalist he’d be working with was male. I didn’t think Jeremy would have any inclination to let Dick within several miles of his daughter, let alone on a trip like this, but still. ‘I didn’t actually have anything to do with choosing the photographer – which is probably just as well as I don’t think even I would have been able to get this guy. He’s one of the best. Always in demand. I’m surprised he agreed to do it, to be honest. Bit of a change from National Geographic and war reporting.’ I smiled. ‘Sounds amazing. So how come he agreed then?’ My boss shook his head. ‘Doing it as a favour apparently. Used to go out with Liv’s friend a while back. Totally broke her heart. She knew Liv loved his work and that his shots would be head and shoulders above what most would make of this assignment. Asked him to do it to make up for all the heartache, or some such bollocks. He agreed. Not sure if that makes him a nice guy or a mug but I’d like to think it’s because he’s got a decent side, even if he is a heart breaker.’ He gave a shrug. ‘I checked him out. I knew his work, obviously, but didn’t know much about the man, apart from what Liv had told me. Good guy. Professional, likeable. Everyone he’s worked with, and for, wouldn’t hesitate to use him again.’ Jeremy paused, ‘Are you all right? Do you want a glass of water? You look a bit of a funny colour.’ I heard him moving about his office and took the glass he shoved in front of my face. ‘Try not to throw up in here, though, eh? They’ve just cleaned the carpets.’ I nodded gingerly and tried to stop the clanging in my head that had started the moment my boss had told me the photographer I’d be working with had dated his daughter’s friend. I’d seen the headlines in the social pages: Russian Socialite Dating Adventurer Photographer. I wasn’t particularly into celebrity gossip but that time my hand had stilled on the page as I had looked at the beautiful woman gazing up adoringly at the man whose arm was around her waist. My ex. Hunter Scott. ‘Better?’ My boss looked concerned. I wasn’t entirely sure if that concern was for me or the carpet. I nodded. ‘You’re not ill, are you?’ I closed my eyes momentarily. ‘Nope.’ ‘Good. I think this is going to be a great opportunity for you, Mia. Once you’ve seen Liv and Sandy tonight, come and see me tomorrow and we can go over the extra bits I want from you.’ ‘Extra bits?’ ‘You want to write travel, don’t you?’ ‘Yes! Yes, I do. Definitely!’ ‘Well, this is going to give me a chance to see what you can do when you’re not in the deepest, darkest depths of Norfolk.’ ‘Really?’ I couldn’t help the smile that spread across my face. He nodded. ‘Really. Scott will get great shots and he’s up for me using some in articles.’ My smile faded. For just a moment I’d forgotten… There was no way Hunter was going to agree to work with me on this. My stomach churned as the realisation dawned that my big chance was quite possibly over before I’d even had a taste of it. ‘Have you seen any of his work?’ I nodded. ‘Umm… yes. Yes, I think I have.’ I’d actually had firsthand experience of some of his very best work and could categorically say he was extremely talented – but I didn’t think my boss needed to know that. ‘Great. Like I say, I couldn’t believe he agreed to this. Seems a bit tame for his portfolio.’ ‘Perhaps he just fancied a change.’ ‘Yep, maybe.’ My boss checked his watch. ‘I’d better get back to work,’ I said, taking the hint. ‘No, hold up. Ah, here he is now. I thought you might want to meet each other before tonight.’ I caught a glimpse of broad shoulders and dark, cropped hair moving through the office as I sank back down slowly on my chair. Hunter walked in, his face breaking into a smile at my boss as they shook hands. ‘Scott! So pleased to finally meet you in person. Your reputation precedes you, of course.’ He closed the door again behind Hunter. ‘Liv is beside herself that you agreed to do it.’ Hunter gave that easy smile again. ‘I kind of owed her friend a favour.’ The deep voice with its faded South African accent immediately brought up memories that would do me no good right now. I shoved them back into the deepest, darkest, dustiest corner of my mind. My boss gave him a conspiratorial look. ‘Yeah, I heard something about that.’ Hunter had the grace – or wherewithal – to look a little sheepish. Jeremy waved his hand. ‘Oh, don’t worry about it. Ilana’s happy as Larry with her new bloke. Richer than Croesus to boot so I wouldn’t feel too bad. Lovely girl, but she always did have a flair for the dramatic.’ Hunter smiled but remained silent, ever the gentleman. ‘Right. Introductions. Scott, this is Mia Walker, the journo I told you about. Mia, meet Hunter Scott.’ He told him about me? Clearly Hunter had kept our previous connection to himself as Jeremy wouldn’t have hesitated to have brought that up in our earlier chat. Taking my cue from Hunter, we shook hands like the strangers we were apparently pretending to be. ‘I feel I ought to let you know that I did actually request another journo to do this with me. No offence. I’ve worked with her before. We know each other’s ways.’ ‘I see,’ I said, doing my best to keep my verbal footing, ‘Well, I guess that’s understandable. But I’m perfectly capable of handling this assignment just as well, if not better, so you don’t need to worry on that front.’ Hunter gave me a look, his brow furrowing momentarily. From the corner of my eye, I saw my boss rub his hand across his face, hiding his grin. I stepped back and retook my seat, at the same time realising my nails were digging so hard into my palms they were about to draw blood. I concentrated on relaxing them. Good to know my ex had already tried to get me bumped from a job for my own boss. It would appear that time didn’t heal all wounds after all. Although it certainly looked like Hunter Scott was doing pretty well on every other front. His career was stellar, he looked broader, a little more tanned and, if the celebrity media was to be believed, had clearly been getting a lot more action than I had in the past five years. His comment to me, and his general manner, indicated he was also tougher, a little harsher than I remembered. Perhaps we really were strangers. The Hunter I knew would never have tried to tank someone’s career out of spite. I guess people change. And yes, I knew I’d probably had a certain amount to do with that change, but Hunter had always had his own mind. Our break-up certainly hadn’t been pretty but I found it hard to believe it was the sole cause for such a distinctive change in him. Or was it just that, somewhere deep inside, I didn’t want to shoulder that blame alone? ‘Sorry?’ I said, pulling myself back to the moment. My boss frowned at me. ‘Are you sure you’re not sick, Mia?’ I took a sip of the water I was still holding and gave him my most professional smile. ‘Definitely not. I’m perfectly fine.’ Hunter turned his back on us to gaze out of the window, taking in the view upstream towards the rest of London. Jeremy gave me a look, tilted his head towards our guest and then back at me. I shrugged. I wasn’t about to let on that we had… history. If Jeremy thought there was more to it than Hunter just being a little arrogant, then there was every chance he would pull me from the job. His daughter’s happiness was his priority and I totally understood that. If he thought my past with Hunter might cause any ripples in that happiness, I knew he’d seriously reconsider whether I was the right person for the job. But I knew I was. This was my chance. And I wasn’t about to give that up for anyone. I’d worked for this and I was sure as hell not going to let Hunter Scott take it away from me. I knew I could do this job. Even though I wasn’t entirely sure what the assignment was yet, I still knew I could do it, whatever it was. Even if Hunter thought differently. My boss gave an eyebrow-raise, before turning back to Hunter and asking him about his most recent assignment. Something in deepest Bolivia for National Geographic, apparently. ‘I hope you’re not going to be too bored with this assignment. It’s obviously a lot different from what you usually do.’ The fact that Hunter had immediately brought up his preference for a different journalist clearly had my boss on a heightened-alert status. And he’d researched him, just as he would have done anyone who was going to be in close proximity to his only child. Hunter’s reputation was such that he could pretty much pick and choose who he worked with. And it was clear to all of us he didn’t choose to work with me. My boss knew me. And he’d chosen me. But I could tell he wasn’t entirely unconcerned about the possibility of his daughter’s preferred, award-winning photographer backing out because of that choice. Hunter smiled and leant back in the chair he’d now sat in. ‘I’ve glanced over the itinerary, and I’ve been to most of these places before. I know where to find something entertaining to do if I need to.’ Or someone more entertaining to do, more likely. At six-foot-three, and what I’d often seen described as “ruggedly beautiful”, Hunter Scott stood out. I knew from experience he’d be hit on before he finished ordering his first drink at the bar. He’d never been into all that one-night stand stuff much before, but from the clippings I’d seen, and meeting him again just now, he didn’t appear to be the same man I’d once known. Hunter stood to leave and I stood too, instantly wishing I’d chosen to wear heels today instead of flats. I tilted my head up to where he now stood, pretty much a whole foot taller than me. ‘Guess I’ll see you tonight at the restaurant,’ he said, looking down at me. I thought about asking him to try repeating the sentence with a little less enthusiasm but I didn’t think it would be physically possible for him to do so. ‘You will indeed.’ ‘Great.’ Again. So much enthusiasm. Jeremy pumped his hand energetically and Hunter left, with most of the surrounding female – and a few male – eyes upon him as he did so. I made to leave too but my boss gestured for me to stay. I closed the door and turned back, tilting my head in question. ‘Wasn’t sure if we’d lost him there. Seems like he’s used to people agreeing with his demands. Talent can do that for you.’ Not to mention the fact that he’s hot as— ‘But I think we’re OK.’ Jeremy interrupted my thought. ‘From what I hear, when this guy gives his word, he means it.’ ‘You could have warned me he’d already tried to get me bumped.’ ‘It wasn’t that he didn’t want to work with you. It was just that he preferred this other woman.’ I wasn’t so sure of the truth of the first half but was pretty damn sure about the second bit. ‘But you’re right. I should have given you a heads-up about that. To be honest, I didn’t think he’d bring it up. I guess he felt the need to be super-honest.’ Yeah. Something like that. ‘I guess so. Well, at least I know where I stand with him now, anyway.’ Jeremy leant back in his seat again and fixed me with a serious look. ‘Mia. You’re a really good writer. If you weren’t, I wouldn’t be sending you on this. Just be the competent, intelligent journalist you are and Scott will soon see you’re just as good as this other woman. Probably better.’ ‘Absolutely. Understood.’ I wasn’t entirely convinced anything I did would change the opinion Hunter Scott held about me – but this was work. And I was going to do my damnedest to make this break pay for me. It was pretty clear that Hunter was different from the man I’d known five years ago. But I was different too. And just because his now-stellar career had led him to a point where he could command his own price, date socialites and be regularly listed looking all hot and daring in yet another article on the World’s Most Eligible and Exciting Bachelors, it didn’t mean I was going to be intimidated by him. And it certainly didn’t mean I was about to give up the career chance of a lifetime just because the circumstances might make him a little uncomfortable. I was going to have to deal with it, so he damn well could too. Chapter Two (#ulink_d981d8c3-b5d8-5a76-9c1a-fff9d2474337) Jeremy opened the door, nodded, and I left his office, heading back to the hot desk I was using today. Abruptly, my path was detoured by Lorelei, our resident crime reporter, grabbing my elbow and steering me off course. Since employing her, Jeremy had confided that the police press liaison was so much chattier. The press liaison was a man, so I totally got this. Apart from having the best name ever, Lorelei Adams was not short of attributes. Picture Jane Russell in the poster for The Outlaw and you pretty much have Lorelei. She was a fifties pin-up made real with a smile that elbowed A-listers into the shade and a mouth like a sailor. Being American, she tended to say what she thought, an attribute I admired. She also really enjoyed loud sex. Since I shared a flat with Lorelei, this was far lower down on my favourite-things-about-my-friend list. Lorelei steered me to the water cooler. ‘I’m not thirsty.’ I looked up at her. Lorelei was in six-inch platform heels that made my feet hurt when I looked at them. She gave me a quizzical look. ‘What?’ I pointed at the water station. ‘I’m not thirsty. I just had some.’ Her eyes scanned my dress and stopped where condensation from the glass of water I’d had earlier had apparently dripped. ‘So I see. Or is that drool because, Mama, that man was hot!’ Right. Hunter. Of course. I gave a quick nod. ‘I’m going back to my desk now.’ ‘Oh no you’re not. Not until you give me all the details of who that man is and what you were doing all cosied up together.’ ‘He’s… a photographer. I’m being sent on an assignment for Jeremy.’ Lorelei raised one perfectly contoured eyebrow. ‘I’m not even sure I should call it that, to be honest. You know his daughter’s getting married?’ ‘Yeah.’ ‘Well, they’re doing this trip thing beforehand in the run-up to the wedding, and they want it all documented, and photographed, so they can make it into, I don’t know, some sort of keepsake book, I think.’ ‘Most people do that with their smartphone and an online photobook store.’ I shrugged. ‘Most people don’t have any other option.’ ‘And Jeremy’s up for that – I mean sending you on it? It kind of seems a waste of your talents.’ I pulled her to the side a little more and whispered. ‘I’m going to be doing a few travel pieces for him while I’m out there, so I’m hoping it might lead to more.’ She grinned and held up her hand, crossing her fingers. Her perfectly manicured, blood-red nails reminded me I ought to do something about my own far less perfect ones before tonight. ‘Besides, it might be nice. I mean, it’s a love story after all and that’s what I write about for the paper, so in a way it’s just building—’ ‘Yeah, yeah, I get it. So romantic,’ Lorelei interrupted me, her impatient tone suggesting romance was the last thing on her mind, ‘So, who’s the hottie?’ I scratched my cheek, poured myself some water I didn’t want and began heading back to my desk. ‘Hey?’ I flicked my gaze around. ‘Later.’ Lorelei pulled her head back, ‘Huh?’ ‘I can’t…’ My throat closed and I shook my head. ‘OK.’ She took the water from my hand, plopped it on my desk and exchanged it for my handbag. ‘We’re going to lunch.’ I looked up to see Jeremy heading our way. ‘I really should…’ ‘Just off to lunch, boss. See ya later!’ Jeremy smiled. Men did that around Lorelei. She was a force of nature and I was pretty sure, in five minutes’ time, the boss would remember he’d actually been heading our way to ask something. ‘Two white wines, please. Make ‘em large.’ Lorelei winked at the bartender. He grinned back and I guessed that, despite the earplugs, I’d probably be having a fairly sleepless night again tonight. ‘Could you make that one wine and one lime and soda, please?’ Lorelei made to argue but I shook my head and she let it drop. ‘So?’ she asked as we settled ourselves at a table. I studied the specials board. Lorelei let out an impatient sigh, ‘Honey, I love you and everything but I swear to God—’ ‘I know. I know. The photographer…’ ‘Yes! I tell you, that man has the best ass I’ve seen in a long time.’ I gave her a look. ‘What?’ she shrugged, ‘He does!’ ‘The hottie with the great arse is Hunter.’ I pulled my glass towards me and gave the straw a vicious suck, all the while eyeing Lorelei’s wine jealously. ‘Hunter? You mean, your Hunter? Your ex, Hunter?’ My eyebrows rose. ‘Yes, to all of the above. Except he is very, most definitely, not my Hunter.’ Lorelei looked over at the bar and made a movement with her hand. Some of the rest of her moved as she did so, watched closely by several City Boys. For once, she didn’t notice. A moment later, another glass of wine appeared on the table. As well as swearing like a sailor, my friend could also drink one under the table. Unlike me. Which was why I was sticking to soda water. Lorelei eyed me. ‘You want this?’ ‘More than I can tell you. But I can’t. I have to go to dinner tonight with the happy couple. And Hunter.’ She pulled the drink back towards her. ‘Then you should definitely keep away from this. I know what a lightweight you are when it comes to alcohol. Honestly, I thought you Brits were supposed to be able to hold your drink.’ ‘I think I’m missing a gene,’ I said, chewing on my straw. ‘Here you go.’ A basket of chips appeared in front of us. Lorelei smiled at the server and asked him to put it on her tab. I rolled my eyes and took a chip. ‘So?’ ‘So, what?’ ‘Talk.’ ‘About?’ ‘Whatever it was you couldn’t say in the office.’ I shook my head and took another chip. ‘There’s not much to say, really. You already covered the salient points, I think.’ ‘All I said was that he had a great ass!’ ‘That’s usually more than enough for you.’ ‘Hey!’ ‘Sorry.’ She shrugged, tossing her hair back. Across the room, a smart-looking businessman tipped his drink down the back of his mate. ‘It’s fine. Kinda true. I did ten years of deep and meaningful... except it wasn’t either in the end. I figured it was time to have some fun after that.’ I pulled a face and put my hand on her arm. ‘I’m sorry. I didn’t mean to sound like a bitch. Seeing Hunter today, just out of the blue like that, it kind of threw me.’ Lorelei covered my hand with her own. ‘Honey, it’s fine! You’re honest. I like that about you. And I know you didn’t mean it in a nasty way. What can I say? I really like sex.’ The buzz of pub conversation decided at that very moment to take a lull and Lorelei’s declaration sang out loud and clear. In the corner, the man who’d just finished drying his jacket with paper towels following his earlier dousing turned just as another colleague’s eyes took in my friend, and the connotations of her statement. The end result was a momentary loss of concentration and half a pint of beer going south. The same unfortunate victim looked down at his now-sodden shirt, then back at his friend. ‘Are you fucking kidding me?’ The man grabbed his damp jacket, flashed a filthy look across the room at us and strode out of the pub, the door banging as it hit the backstop hard. His two friends exchanged sheepish looks, before tentatively glancing over at Lorelei. She made an “oops” face and they immediately both lost sight of the awkwardness that awaited them back at the office. ‘Oh great. They’re coming over,’ I muttered. Lorelei turned her back and leaned closer to me, giving off a message that intrusion wasn’t welcome. From the corner of my eye, I saw the two hesitate, dither for a moment and then casually head towards the door as if that had been the plan all along and they hadn’t just been blown off. ‘Right. They’re gone. So. Now. I need details. Seriously? You didn’t think to tell me your ex was Indiana Jones on steroids! Hunter Scott? Photographer extraordinaire? And totally damn gorgeous to boot.’ I rolled my eyes. ‘You forgot to mention his bum. You were a big fan of that too, remember.’ I stabbed a chip viciously into the ketchup, the resultant mess looking like I’d murdered it. Studying it for a moment, I then rammed it in my mouth. ‘You done?’ ‘What?’ ‘Got some issues there, babe.’ ‘I have not!’ I protested through the mouthful of chips I’d now shoved in. It was true. I didn’t. Yes, it had thrown me to see Hunter this morning, and although I would rather have stuck a fork in myself than admit it to him, it had hurt to hear him so blatantly admit he didn’t think I was up to the job. Not to mention pissing me off immensely. We stepped out of the bar and back into the Autumn chill. A cold October wind rushed up the Thames flowing next to us. Occasional white caps caught glints of deceptively cool sunshine, sending out glittering reflections. ‘Jeremy’s out this afternoon. Why don’t you go home? Give yourself plenty of time to get ready and psyche yourself up? Then you go out there with your absolute A-game. Show this Hunter guy he can’t try and get you thrown off an assignment just because his ego got bruised five years ago.’ I shrugged. ‘To be fair, I think I did a bit more than bruise his ego.’ ‘Yeah. Maybe. But it usually takes two to break something like that.’ ‘I’m not sure he sees it like that.’ ‘Then maybe it’s about time he did. You want me to talk to him?’ ‘No!’ I squeaked, my voice shooting up so high I was pretty sure several dogs were already on their way over. ‘No. Thank you,’ I repeated, this time at a more normal pitch. I’d told Lorelei the whole story, minus names, two years ago, after an ill-advised decision to continue the office Christmas party at a club, and an even more ill-advised decision to have a “cocktail or two”. Or two turned out to be five, and frankly it still surprised me I was even alive. Christmas wasn’t exactly a great time for me, what with my relationship having pretty much been annihilated during the festive season five years ago. On the day it had happened, the day things had finally fallen apart into so many pieces there was no hope of ever putting them together again, everything had felt so sudden. I’m not sure what I had expected. I do know I hadn’t expected my fianc? to be completely out of my life for ever within half an hour. To quote Lorelei, I hadn’t had proper closure. Maybe this trip was the chance to get that. Finally. Lorelei was looking put-out. ‘Sorry. I didn’t mean anything by it. I just don’t think it would do any good. The damage is long done.’ ‘Your choice.’ ‘Thanks, though. For offering.’ I did appreciate that Lorelei was trying to help, but what I’d said was true. In Hunter’s eyes, I was the one who’d broken everything. And maybe he was right. But if he was, it was because it had needed breaking, and definitely before we launched into a marriage thatwe would probably have each seen quite differently. But Hunter had shown today he still laid the blame firmly at my feet. Talking about it, even with the benefit of time having passed, wouldn’t make any difference now. He’d still hate me. Not to mention that when Lorelei had a talk with a man, it usually ended up as pillow talk. I’d rather t stick a fork in my eye than lie in my bedroom and listen to my flatmate and my ex going at it in the next room, thank you very much. She gave me a look, considering forgiveness. ‘What are you going to wear to The Ivy?’ ‘Oh God.’ I leant forward over the railing and looked down into the water as it sloshed and slapped against the wharf. ‘I have no idea.’ ‘I can lend you something.’ I turned back towards her, glanced down at her impressive chest, then down at my own. Even under our warming layers it was pretty obvious we were built differently. ‘I’m not sure I have enough socks to do justice to one of your beautiful dresses, but thanks all the same.’ I reached up and hugged her. ‘I’m sorry if I snapped earlier. Seeing him with no warning just threw me off. I’ll be OK by tonight.’ ‘Sure you will! And you’re fine. Totally understandable to be a little edgy in the circumstances. Look, Jeremy wouldn’t have let you near his daughter if he thought there was even the remotest chance you couldn’t handle it. And it could well lead to more for you, so don’t you dare let a man ruin that for you – even one that looks good. Now go home and get ready to wow the crap out of them all.’ I gave her another hug, wrapped my coat tighter around me against the biting wind, and headed towards the Tube station to catch a train back to our flat. Chapter Three (#ulink_e92e7f62-79fc-5b37-9c19-1ba09752ef95) The taxi made its way through the rain-soaked streets of London. The bright afternoon had gradually morphed into a grey one and ended as a decidedly damp, cold evening. The cab pulled up with a few minutes to spare. I quickly handed over my fare as the restaurant doorman held an umbrella over me for the two steps across the pavement to the glass-and-wood-panelled doors. I thanked him as he opened the door and I stepped inside, taking a deep breath as I did so. I can do this. I can totally wow the crap out of— ‘Excuse me.’ An American accent accompanied the request as a man made to pass by without bumping me. ‘Oh, sorry.’ I stepped a little more out of the way, glancing up with a smile as I did so to find myself looking directly into the piercing blue eyes of Bradley Cooper. ‘No problem.’ He gave me the amazing smile that helped keep his bank balance ridiculously in the black and I bit the inside of my cheeks in an effort to stop the biggest, most idiotic smile I owned bouncing onto my face. He headed off towards a table, and I concentrated on getting my heart rate back down, congratulating myself on the fact I hadn’t flung my arms around his neck, and squealed ‘Oh my God! Bradley Cooper! I love you!’ Points to me, I believe. ‘Madam?’ The ma?tre d’ asked. I realised from the look on his face he was repeating himself. ‘Oh! I’m so sorry. I… I’m here to meet someone.’ ‘Do you have the name of the party?’ ‘Yes. It’s…’ Oh God. Was it in Sandeep’s name. Or Olivia’s? Or maybe even Hunter’s? Jeremy hated it when the paps bothered his daughter so I knew that sometimes they used different names. The man looked at me, a studied patience showing on his face. I smiled and relaxed my shoulders, projecting a confident air. ‘It’s in the name of Singh.’ He looked down at his list. ‘Or maybe Spencer,’ I added, in case it was under Olivia’s. His gaze flicked up at me momentarily before returning to his records. ‘Or Scott. Or perhaps…Walker?’ He’d stopped looking for names now and was just focused on me. ‘Madam. I’m afraid if you don’t have an actual booking—’ ‘I do!’ I felt my face flush with indignation. ‘I’m just not the one who made it so I’m not entirely sure whose name it was booked under.’ ‘I see.’ He didn’t look like he saw at all. ‘If you could—’ ‘She’s with me.’ Hunter suddenly appeared at my side, looking at ease and pretty much edible in a beautifully cut, deep-slate-grey suit that accentuated his broad shoulders and contrasted with his eyes perfectly. ‘Mr Scott. I do apologise. We seem to be having a little communication issue,’ the ma?tre d’ explained. Hunter gave him an easy smile and I clamped my jaw shut before I showed both of them just how bloody communicative I could be. I concentrated on trying to be calm again, smoothed a hand over my hair and straightened my dress. My coat had been whisked away but I still held my bag. Hunter glanced at me, his eyes flicking briefly to where I was gripping my bag like it contained the Koh-i-Noor diamond. ‘I don’t think you’re going to get mugged in here, Mia.’ I gave him a tight smile and loosened my grip as he indicated the way with a tilt of his head. ‘Wasn’t sure if you were turning up,’ he said languidly as we walked towards the table. I spun round so fast that he bumped into me, knocking me off balance. His hands shot out and steadied me before immediately dropping back loose at his sides. ‘I was here on time. I was only delayed by that stuck-up waiter not being helpful and insinuating that I was trying to wangle my way in here.’ ‘They have to be careful who they let in. Peter was just doing his job.’ I rolled my eyes. ‘Just because you’re on first-name terms with him doesn’t excuse him for looking down on me.’ ‘You’re being paranoid.’ I glared at him. ‘Am I? Well, why don’t you just add that to your list of reasons why you think I’m not right for this job. Not that it will do any good. Because I am. And nothing you say, or do, is going to change that fact. You’re obviously far too busy and important to notice people lower down the food chain but I’m really good at my job. I know it, my boss knows it, and Olivia knows it. And those are the only opinions that really matter right now.’ We were whispering but there was no doubt about the fact we were also arguing. I saw a few interested glances flick our way. Apparently, Hunter did too. ‘Let’s go and sit down. Making a scene in front of a client isn’t my usual style.’ ‘You started it.’ ‘Real mature, Mia.’ Shit. Since he put it like that, it did sound childish and that wasn’t how I’d meant it to sound at all. Double shit. ‘At least I’m mature enough not to try and get my ex booted off a job. Thanks for that, by the way.’ He caught my elbow and I looked up into the pools of blue I’d lost myself in so many times before. But the look in them now was entirely different. ‘Getting you booted off, as you put it, has nothing to do with your being an ex. It has to do with the fact that I don’t think you’re the best person for the job.’ ‘And your current girlfriend of the week is, I suppose?’ ‘She’s not my girlfriend. Actually, she’s an ex. Which rather disproves your theory, don’t you think? Ah, here we are.’ He stopped by a table before I could reply. A couple were sitting, hands entwined, so wrapped up in each other they hadn’t noticed us. ‘Hey, lovebugs,’ Hunter interrupted, ‘people are trying to eat here.’ The two looked up and their faces broke into smiles at the sight of him. ‘Scott, how are you?’ Sandeep shook Hunter’s hand and they did a quick man-hug thing. Sandeep then stood aside to allow Olivia to say hello – something she did with a big hug and kisses on both cheeks. ‘Hunter, I know I shouldn’t say this after you broke Ilana’s heart so callously – but we’ve missed you! Where have you been?’ Hunter hugged her back and smiled. ‘Oh. Here and there. And I’m pretty sure Ilana’s well over me. She was wearing a rock as big as a car tyre on her left hand last time I saw her and she looked pretty damn happy.’ ‘She cried for a week when you broke it off.’ Olivia raised an eyebrow at him. ‘Well, then I’m truly sorry. I never meant to hurt her, and I do hope she’s really happy with this guy.’ Olivia flapped her hand, ‘Oh God. She’s over the moon! He lets her get away with everything – unlike you – and treats her like an absolute princess.’ Hunter grinned, giving a flash of even white teeth. ‘He sounds perfect for her.’ ‘Totally.’ Olivia turned to me. ‘I’m sorry. Listen to us going on! You must be Mia. I recognise you from your byline photo.’ She held out her hand. ‘Daddy’s told me so much about you.’ I smiled and hoped Hunter hadn’t added anything to that information. ‘It’s so nice to meet you both.’ We all shook hands and took our seats. ‘Shall I order some wine? Anything you prefer, Mia?’ Sandeep asked. ‘Oh! Oh no, I think I’m just going to stick to water this evening, thanks.’ Hunter was looking at the menu but I saw his mouth twitch as he hid a smile. He knew that if I had wine, it wouldn’t be long before I’d be eyeing the room for a convenient place to take a nap. It irked me more than it should that he knew these little things about me. Of course, he knew a whole lot more about me than that, but I wasn’t going anywhere near that. I crossed my legs and accidentally kicked him under the table. ‘Sorry. Was that you?’ He levelled his gaze at me. ‘Yes.’ ‘Oops.’ ‘So, Mia, I hope you’re excited about the trip! I knew you’d be right for this as soon as we discussed getting it documented. I didn’t want it to be sloppy and gushy but I didn’t want it to feel like a dry old travel journal either. The weddings section is the first one I read as soon as the paper drops through the door! The stories are all so romantic. I love the way you write.’ ‘Thank you,’ I said, which seemed a little inadequate in response to her bubbling enthusiasm. Olivia smiled at me. ‘I can’t wait to see what you write about our wedding day too. I’m so excited. Have you always written this sort of thing?’ ‘Umm, no, not really. I used to work for a regional paper, and covered all sorts. A few years ago, I came for an interview with your dad. I’d actually been going for a travel position but it had already been filled. Jeremy said he still wanted to hire me and there was another section he wanted to pep up, if I’d be willing to take that. It wasn’t what I’d been hoping for when I went for the interview but I knew I was lucky he was giving me a foot in the door. ‘And you enjoy it?’ ‘I do. Well, mostly. I cover births, marriages and deaths and I have to admit I’m not so keen on the obituaries bit, if I’m honest.’ I looked up and saw their faces, and then, realising some of this could get back to Jeremy, quickly elaborated. ‘Only because they make me a little sad. Some of these people achieved so much, were clearly so loved and then… well, they’re not here any more.’ ‘But surely one should be happy they had a good life, and achieved what they did?’ Sandeep asked. ‘And I am! I just…’ ‘It makes you sad,’ Olivia said. ‘That’s perfectly understandable. I wouldn’t even be able to think about writing that stuff. I’d be a mess before I even started!’ Sandeep looked at her in a way that made it clear to every other diner just how he felt about her. His eyes were filled with utter adoration. To my horror, I realised Olivia’s were filled with tears. Perfect! I’d made my client cry. Hunter glanced up from his menu and saw the same thing. His gaze slid to mine momentarily and I could tell he’d just found yet another reason why his girlfriend, or whoever she was, should have got this job and not me. ‘Olivia, I’m so sorry! I didn’t mean to upset you.’ Across the table, she waved her hand. ‘I’m fine, honestly! Not your fault.’ Sandeep lifted her hand and briefly kissed it. ‘My fianc?e can be a little emotional.’ She gave him a shy look under her lashes. ‘Yet another facet I love her for.’ I smiled at them. They really were adorable. Hunter made a throwing-up sound. I glared at him and Olivia threw her napkin across the table. ‘Just because you’re a cold-hearted wretch doesn’t mean the rest of us have to be,’ she admonished him. ‘Honestly, whatever will Mia think of you?’ He shrugged. ‘I really don’t think it’s important what Mia thinks of me. I’m here to do a job. And I’ll do it well. Just because I don’t believe in all this stuff doesn’t mean I can’t capture what you two have.’ Olivia was twiddling her engagement ring, her face showing hints of doubt. I wanted to feel smug that, after all his banging on about how I wasn’t the right person for this trip, it was actually him Olivia was now having doubts over. But I couldn’t. I’d only just met them but I already really liked this couple and I wanted everything to be perfect for them. Obviously their first choice had been Hunter, but now… I shot him a glance. He held it a moment before looking away and I knew he understood. Reaching over, he covered his friend’s hand. ‘Liv, I promise. All right?’ She looked at him. ‘All right. But it’s a good job I know you. Otherwise I might begin to think you weren’t right for this job.’ He screwed up his face. ‘But you don’t know Mia at all. How do you know she’s right for it?’ Seriously? He was still trying to get me off the job? Un-bloody-believable! ‘Because I read her stuff every week, and I love it! I’ve no doubt thatshe’ll see and capture all the romance and love of our story in her words.’ ‘So why doubt I can do it?’ ‘Because you’re not a romantic.’ ‘And?’ ‘Mia clearly is.’ Hunter gave a shake of his head, blew out a sigh and emptied a large proportion of his wine glass down his throat. Before anyone could say anything else, a waiter appeared and we busied ourselves in ordering. As the evening progressed, I found myself relaxing a little more, despite the fact that Hunter only spoke to me when he really had to. He was civil but that was about it. Olivia and Sandeep, however, were absolutely lovely and I found myself falling a little in love with both of them. Their feelings for each other were so clear to see and, despite what Olivia had said, I knew Hunter could see it too. We said goodbye outside the restaurant, Olivia and Sandeep both wrapping me in a big hug before their private car arrived, purring at the kerb as the doorman saw them in. It pulled off quietly and Hunter and I stood on the pavement, watching the tail-lights turn off into traffic and disappear. Once they had, I looked up at him. I was about to speak when the door opened behind us and Mr Cooper himself emerged. He noticed me and smiled. ‘Hello again.’ I smiled back. Partly because, well, it was Bradley Cooper, and partly because, from the corner of my eye, I could see the look on Hunter’s face and it was absolutely priceless. ‘Hello.’ I saw him glance across at Hunter, then back at me, before a sleek, dark Mercedes, its windows tinted, pulled up and he and two others got into it, Bradley giving a little wave to me as he did so. I could have kissed him. ‘Didn’t know you two were friendly,’ Hunter said in a flat tone, giving the Mercedes another momentary look as it drove off. ‘There’s a lot about me you don’t know.’ The fact that I wasn’t remotely friendly with any A-list actors and had done nothing more than be in Bradley Cooper’s way earlier this evening was neither here nor there. For some reason, it seemed to irk Hunter and, after his behaviour today, I was going to take full advantage of that fact. ‘I just wanted to say I’d appreciate it if you’d stop trying to get me bumped from this now. It’s an opportunity that might not come again so I’d be grateful if you didn’t do your best to try and ruin it for me.’ ‘I don’t know what you mean.’ ‘What I mean is that we’re both on this job now and obviously that’s not ideal. But it is the case and while you get to pick and choose your assignments now you’re Mr Big Shot, I still have to grab an opportunity like this with both hands. And that’s made ten times harder when there’s someone trying to yank it out of them!’ He’d been looking off into the middle distance, and now drifted his gaze back to me. ‘Are you done?’ ‘Are you?’ He shrugged. ‘Fine. Liv and Sandy can’t say I didn’t warn them.’ ‘What’s that supposed to mean?’ ‘It means I think there are better people for this assignment but I can’t do anything about it.’ ‘I don’t think it’s got anything to do with them or the job, Hunter. I think it’s because the thought of having to spend time with me clearly isn’t one you relish.’ ‘Or maybe it’s both,’ he said, sticking his arm out to hail a black cab. ‘Right,’ I said. ‘I see.’ I swallowed hard and made a show of busying myself with my scarf as I took in his blunt statement. A cab pulled up alongside us and I got in, directing the driver to London Bridge station. I would have been happy to get the Tube, but Olivia and Sandeep had insisted I get a taxi. The flat was close to the station so it was always just easier to get one to there. ‘I’ll share if you don’t mind,’ Hunter said, jumping in the cab after me. ‘I’m heading that way myself.’ ‘I’m surprised you’re not getting a separate one, seeing as how spending any sort of time with me is clearly so repellent to you.’ ‘I never said you were repellent.’ ‘Neither did I! I just said the… oh, never mind.’ I slumped back in the seat. He gave me a look and seemed about to say something, but stopped. ‘This way we only have to bill the client for one cab ride. I like Liv and Sandy. Yes, they’ve got pots of money between them but that doesn’t mean I take advantage.’ ‘And I suppose you think I would.’ It wasn’t a question and I didn’t have any energy left to argue with him. I was mentally exhausted. I was ecstatic over the job, and ordinarily I’d have been bursting with excitement, but it was hard to get excited when the person you were going to be spending the next couple of months with couldn’t stand the sight of you. ‘I don’t know, Mia.’ I stared at him for a moment, shocked he really did think I was that low. Turning my head, I looked out of the window, opting not to answer at all. He frowned momentarily. ‘We haven’t seen each other in five years. Time changes people.’ He paused. ‘But no, I don’t think you would.’ I kept silent. The cab pulled up at the station and I handed over the money quicker than Hunter could. The driver gave me a receipt in return. I stepped out one side and Hunter got out the other. Keeping my cool, I pushed the door closed on the cab as Hunter strode around the car. His eyes flicked over me. ‘Mia, yo—’ ‘Please don’t say any more, Hunter. This has been a difficult enough evening for both of us. I just hope that now we can…. Arrrrgh!’ The cab pulled away with a corner of my scarf caught firmly in its door. It yanked me to the side and I overbalanced. Hunter wrapped one arm firmly around me and with the other banged on the roof of the cab. It halted immediately. The window buzzed down and an assortment of colourful words tumbled out. Hunter held up his free hand and quickly explained the situation. The tirade stopped and my scarf was set free. I croaked an apology. The driver nodded and pulled away again, this time uninterrupted. Hunter’s arm was still around me. ‘You all right?’ So long as feeling like an absolute idiot doesn’t count, then sure, I’m absolutely bloody peachy! ‘Thanks.’ I nodded stiffly, acting terribly British and hoping that single action and word covered everything. ‘Guess I’ll see you at the airport then.’ ‘Yes. I guess so.’ Silence. ‘Are you getting a train?’ He shook his head. ‘No,’ he said, checking his watch. ‘I’ve got a friend just down the road. I think I’m going to stay there tonight.’ Can anyone say booty call? ‘Right. That’s nice then.’ That’s nice then? Jesus, Mia. The smallest of smiles flickered at the corners of his lips. ‘See you in a few days, Mia.’ With that, he turned and walked away, shoving his hands in the pockets of his impeccably cut woollen coat, the collar turned up against the chill of the wind. I watched him for a moment before turning away and heading in the opposite direction to my flat. Chapter Four (#ulink_51b0ef3c-b6a4-52de-86d6-61f11f2c149c) ‘How was it?’ Lorelei asked, emerging from her bedroom dressed in a silk kimono as I slid the security chain on the door and kicked off my shoes. I flopped face down on the sofa, burying my head in the myriad cushions that seemed to multiply the moment I turned my back. ‘Ugh.’ ‘That good, huh?’ I added one slow hand flap for emphasis before wriggling around and lying on my back, staring at the ceiling. Lorelei threw a few cushions down and sat on them on the floor beside me. She reached over and held my hand. ‘Want to talk about it?’ I rolled my head from side to side and one of the tears I’d been holding in escaped. ‘Oh, honey,’ Lorelei said, softly, handing me a tissue. ‘He hates me. He did everything he could to get me off the assignment because he thinks I’m not up to the job, and because he doesn’t want to have to spend time with me.’ ‘I’m sure that’s not really the case. Did he actually say that?’ ‘Yes. Pretty much with those exact words.’ ‘Oh.’ I swiped at my eyes and nose with the tissue. ‘Yeah. Maybe he’s right. Tonight was bad enough. How are we going to spend the next two months together, trying to capture this romantic journey, when all he wants to do is turn his back on me?’ ‘OK. That’s it. Sit up.’ I made a protesting sort of noise but once Lorelei decided on something, it tended to happen. I sat up. ‘You listen to me, Mia Walker. Olivia and her fianc? chose you to do this job. She still wants you, right?’ I sniffed. ‘Yeah. She was really nice, actually. Not what I expected at all.’ ‘Right. Good. Then that’s all that matters.’ ‘But she just reads my wedding coverage pieces. She’s not experienced in the field like…’ I stopped because Lorelei was looking at me like she was thinking of having me committed. ‘What?’ ‘Do you think you’d have been allowed anywhere near this job – whatever Olivia said – if Jeremy didn’t think you could do it? Sandeep Singh is not a man to waste money. He’s a really savvy guy and Jeremy doesn’t take shit from anyone. There’s no way you’d be doing this if either of them thought you were as flaky as you’re trying to sound!’ ‘I’m not trying to sound flaky! You didn’t see the way he looks at her. She could ask for the moon and he’d have it gift-wrapped and delivered by dinner time! It’s sickeningly adorable! Getting the writer she wants wouldn’t be something he’d even think twice about, I’m sure.’ ‘He’ll have checked you out and spoken to her father. I know these sorts of guys. Hell, I dated one for two years. Believe me, they don’t do anything without checking it out first, especially when it involves money.’ ‘I guess.’ ‘You guess right. You’re a great writer. Hunter Scott’s just got a stick up his ass because you dumped him. He has no right to try and get you replaced with his girlfriend because of that. It certainly isn’t professional.’ ‘I think he makes an exception for me. From everything Jeremy said, professionalism is his middle name.’ ‘Was he an ass all evening?’ ‘No,’ I said, closing my eyes, ‘not all of it. Mostly he just ignored me if it was possible. And he did stop the cab driver strangling me…’ ‘What!’ My eyes flew open. ‘Oh! No! My scarf. I shut it in the taxi door and he drove off and it was… Hunter caught me and stopped the cab.’ ‘Right. There you go then!’ ‘What?’ ‘Well, he clearly doesn’t want you dead, so that’s a start.’ ‘Right.’ I wasn’t sure that the fact he didn’t mind if I was alive was a whole lot to grab on to but I didn’t have much else. ‘I need to go to bed,’ I said, giving her a hug. ‘Thanks for everything.’ With that I went tramping off in the direction of the bedroom. I closed the door and heard Lorelei’s close just after. Moments later, sounds began drifting through the flat. Sounds I most definitely recognised the tone of – although unfortunately not from any recent, firsthand experience. I fell on the bed fully clothed and pulled the pillow down over my head. The tension with Hunter aside, at least this assignment, taking in as it did destinations like India, Malaysia and LA, would not only get me away from a grey and cold London for a while, but hopefully might also have the added benefit of affording me a few solid weeks of undisturbed sleep. *** It was obscenely early, and having checked in I was now sitting in the business-class lounge at Heathrow Airport, working on my second cup of coffee and willing the caffeine to make some sort of effort to jumpstart my system. So far it didn’t seem to be producing anywhere near the effects I was hoping for. Surely, for the money they were charging for the flight, there should be an IV-caffeine system thrown in? I took a moment and watched Sandeep and Olivia a few chairs away from me. Her head was resting on his shoulder, and she was whispering something. He laughed softly and replied, moving his hand so it stroked his fianc?e’s silky straight tresses as they lay over her shoulder. I could already feel ideas forming in my head for the feature covering their lavish Christmas wedding, which would be the culmination to this trip. It was clear, unlike some of the ones I’d attended in the past, that this was a match built on mutual respect and a deep and very true love. A bag thumping to the floor beside me yanked me from my ponderings and made me start. The owner of it sauntered lazily towards the couple. They looked up and greeted him enthusiastically before he wandered off and grabbed himself some breakfast items from the selection on display. Having made his choice, Hunter stopped at the coffee machine, making inroads on a croissant from his plate as he waited for the cup to fill. I watched from beneath my lashes as several of the women in the room followed him with their eyes, taking in the suggestion of sculpted muscles hiding underneath the black T-shirt he wore, the long sleeves of which he’d pushed back, exposing strong, tanned forearms. Some observing eyes had wandered lower and now roved over the stone-coloured cargo pants, coming to rest on his rear. Lorelei was right. He still had a great bum. It really was so annoying. The machine finished producing his drink and he took the mug out of the way, enabling the woman waiting beside him to use it. I watched as she smiled, and then pressed a few buttons randomly on the machine and laughed, saying something to Hunter as she did so. He looked back, gave a quick glance at the machine and then back to the woman before setting his cup back down on the counter. Taking the existing cup out of the machine, he dumped the contents then put it back under the nozzle before pressing a couple of buttons. She looked at him like he’d just solved the Rosetta Stone. He gave her a brief smile, nodded, then grabbed his coffee and headed back towards me. I rolled my eyes and went back to studying the guidebooks I’d brought with me. ‘Do you mind?’ he asked, indicating the seat next to me with his coffee cup. I shrugged. He took that as a “no” and sat down, taking a bite of a pain au chocolat as he did so. ‘Your new friend looks like she has space next to her.’ I kept my voice light and innocent. He looked over the top of his mug at me. ‘What new friend?’ I indicated with my eyes to where the woman from the coffee machine was now sitting and throwing surreptitious glances Hunter’s way. Almost imperceptibly he followed my gaze then returned it to the plate of food in front of him. ‘Not really my type.’ ‘Why not?’ ‘I don’t go in for player moves.’ ‘How do you know it was a player move? Maybe she really didn’t know how to work the machine?’ ‘There’s an empty cup in front of her with the same shade of lipstick on it as she’s wearing, so she’s obviously already had one.’ ‘Maybe someone else worked the machine for her that time?’ ‘Then she should have paid attention.’ He finished the last of his coffee. ‘What?’ he asked, seeing my expression. ‘Nothing.’ ‘You think that’s harsh?’ I shrugged. ‘Maybe a little. She was obviously just trying to start a conversation with you.’ He gave a little shake of his head as he stood, brushing off the flaky crumbs that had missed the napkin. ‘So start a conversation then. Don’t play games. I’d rather people just be honest. Life’s too short for games.’ With that he strode back towards the counter, got himself another espresso and flicked through a couple of the free newspapers provided as he waited. I watched for a moment before returning to my book, but I couldn’t concentrate. It was strange to see this man I’d once known so well speak like that. Physically, he was much the same as the man I’d known – a little broader, a little older and a little more tanned than the day he’d walked out of our house almost five years ago. But mentally, he was almost a stranger. I’d seen flashes of the man I’d known now and then, when he was interacting with Olivia and Sandeep – people who’d clearly become his friends. But for the most part, I didn’t recognise him. He was tougher than he’d been before, more critical, less easy-going it seemed. It was like working with a stranger – but twice as hard because there was this unspoken history between us. I hadn’t mentioned it and neither had Hunter but it was there. I wondered if the others knew. Neither had said anything and I hadn’t noticed any surreptitious glances going on at dinner the other evening so I made a guess that Hunter hadn’t told them. As I flipped the page on my book, not having taken in much of the previous one, Hunter wandered back over and retook his seat, stretching long legs out in front of him and shuffling down in the seat. ‘What are you reading?’ He reached over and took the book for a moment, pulled a face and handed it back. ‘What was the face for?’ He shrugged. ‘That’s not the best one you could have picked but…’ I blew out a sigh. ‘Of course it’s not. But I bet your girlfriend would have picked exactly the right one and could probably design a bloody coffee machine as well as operate one.’ I tossed the book in the top of my open shoulder bag and folded my arms. ‘Jesus. You didn’t get any better at early mornings, did you?’ I snapped my head around to face him. A smirk teased the corners of his mouth. I gritted my teeth. ‘What girlfriend anyway?’ ‘The one you wanted to take on this trip. Instead of me.’ He ran a hand over his short crop. ‘I already told you she’s not my girlfriend any more. She’s just a really good journalist.’ ‘And I’m not. Thanks. I guess all the support you gave me before was just a load of—’ He snapped his head up. ‘What happened between us was a long time ago and anything I said then is completely irrelevant today.’ His voice was low but tight, and I could see a muscle flickering in his jaw. ‘Right. Yes, obviously. But if you’re going to crap all over my work, I’d at least like to know what it is that you object to about it.’ ‘You’re inexperienced out in the field. Liv and Sandy are good friends and they’re excited about this trip. I don’t want it cocked up. That’s all.’ ‘Thanks.’ ‘You’re the one that asked.’ ‘Olivia likes my stuff and my boss thinks I can do it, so what makes you a better judge than both of them? Just because you’re in demand and doing fantastically in your own career doesn’t give you the right to shit over everyone else!’ Having to keep our argument in whispered tones was as frustrating as hell because what I actually wanted to do was completely let rip at him. He stuck a hand out and yanked my chair closer. ‘Unlike some people, I would never do that and I don’t appreciate being accused of it.’ ‘If that’s a dig at me, then fine! You think what you want, Hunter. I’m sorry you were hurt, I really am, and yes, it probably would have been better if we’d never had to see each other again, but here we are. You got your chance and your big break. I’m not expecting this to lead to anything like the giddy heights you’ve achieved – something I’m thrilled for you about, by the way, as impossible as I’m sure you find that to believe. But I want to do this and I know I can do a really good job, even if you have zero confidence in the situation. All I’m asking is for you not to keep trying to undermine me at every single opportunity. And when this is done, you can go back to your life, and jet off on the next adrenaline-fuelled, highly regarded assignment, and I’ll go back to doing what I do. It’s pretty unlikely you’ll ever have to have anything to do with me again. If this works out, and I actually get a shot at travel and have to team up with a photographer, you’re always going to be able to veto working with someone you don’t want to – i.e. me – so it’s never going to be an issue.’ I closed my eyes for a moment, swallowed, and then looked up into his face. ‘I know you hate me, Hunter. And I can’t do anything to change that. But if you give me a chance, I might at least be able to change your professional opinion of me.’ His hand was still gripping the chair, the knuckles pale through his tan. I’d always loved his hands. The long, strong fingers that would curl around mine and hold gently but firmly. It had made me feel like he would never let me go. And he hadn’t. I was the one that had let go. ‘Fine,’ he said eventually, relaxing his fingers on the chair. ‘You do your thing, I’ll do mine, and then it’s done.’ I nodded, looking for a hint of warmth in the chill blue of his eyes and finding none. A quiet buzzing began to intrude. Hunter broke the gaze and leant back. Reaching into a side pocket on his trousers, he drew out a smartphone, packed in a similar ruggedised cover to the ugly one I used. Glancing at the screen, his mouth curved and he answered, a softness in his voice that hadn’t been there a moment ago. ‘Hi.’ He pushed himself up from the chair and took the phone call out of my hearing. I watched him walk away, one hand on the phone, the other shoved in his pocket. He looked relaxed and calm. The tension that had stiffened his shoulders a few moments ago dissipated and, as his gentle laugh travelled over to me, I couldn’t help but wonder who was on the other end of the phone, making him show that easy, incredibly sexy smile. He caught me looking and I quickly tilted my head away, feigning interest in the headline of a discarded paper on the table next to me. From the corner of my eye, I saw him turn his back to me more as he leant on the wall and continued his call. I really had no doubt that I could do this job. As Hunter’s behaviour showed, when I did something, I did it thoroughly. *** We settled into our seats and accepted the smiles and hospitality from the cabin crew as we got comfortable. Hunter was garnering a little more hospitality than most of the other passengers from one particular cabin-crew member – something he seemed to be utterly enjoying. His eyes drifted past her momentarily and I quickly looked away, hoping he hadn’t seen me watching the little tableau play out. Hunter had always caught women’s attention. It was hard not to when you looked like that. But he’d never seemed entirely comfortable with it before. He’d always been a fairly confident guy. In his business, you had to be. But when it came to being chatted up, there had always been that little hint of awkwardness, just the tiniest amount, but entirely natural. It had been kind of adorable. But it was clear that had gone completely now. Now the confidence had spread and he’d completely embraced everything he had going for him, in all aspects, and was making them pay for him. Which I guess was fair enough. Lorelei had done the same thing and I admired the hell out of her for doing it. So why not Hunter? He gave a full-wattage smile to the stewardess as she handed him an extra pillow and then proceeded to shove it in the small of his back. ‘All right?’ he asked. ‘Yes, thank you.’ ‘First time in business class?’ I gave him a look. ‘Now what?’ ‘I may not have won a Pulitzer but if you could at least try not to be quite so condescending, it would be greatly appreciated.’ His mouth set in a grim line. ‘I was just trying to make conversation, Mia. If you want to take it the wrong way, then that’s up to you. You always were pretty good at that. I guess not everything changes.’ ‘What’s that supposed to mean?’ ‘It means that sometimes people are just asking a question, with no hidden meaning. Or just doing something nice, with no agenda. I’d hoped, for your sake, that you might have come to realise that by now. I guess not.’ ‘Hunter. It’s been five years. It’s obvious we’ve both changed. Don’t pretend to know me.’ He gave a laugh that to everyone else might have sounded normal; to me, though, there was something off about it. ‘Believe me. I have no intention of ever again beginning to think I know you. I’m not in the habit of making the same mistake twice. I really was just asking a question, making conversation, trying to be polite for the sake of Liv and Sandy, and for my own sanity over the next two months. Stop reading into everything so much and you might actually enjoy yourself occasionally.’ He stopped his lecture just in time to lift two champagnes off the tray brought by his new favourite employee. She gave me a subtly appraising look as he handed one of them to me, then smiled at him again and moved on through the cabin. ‘I enjoy myself plenty, thank you very much!’ ‘Really,’ he said, the disbelief evident in his voice as he took a sip from the flute. ‘Really,’ I replied, with emphasis. ‘When?’ ‘What?’ ‘When was the last time you enjoyed yourself? Really let yourself go and laughed and didn’t care?’ ‘I think I need to swap this for some orange juice.’ I turned to see if I could catch the eye of one of the crew. ‘Just drink the champagne, Mia. You like champagne. Unless that’s changed.’ ‘No. I do. But I’m working. You might get away with drinking on the job. But I intend to be a little more professional.’ ‘Probably helps that I don’t fall asleep after two glasses.’ I narrowed my eyes at him. A glimmer of a smile played at the corners of his mouth. ‘It’s not unprofessional. It’s one glass and we’ve got an eight-hour flight ahead of us, so you can sleep it off anyway.’ I rolled my eyes at him. ‘See it as a celebratory drink for getting a great assignment.’ ‘No thanks to you.’ ‘That’s true.’ ‘Sorry if I spoiled your plans to take your friend.’ ‘Are you?’ ‘No. Not in the slightest.’ And with that I silently congratulated myself. as he’d suggested, pulled out the SkyMall magazine and began window shopping. Several hours later, I’d read the magazines I’d brought, watched a film and made some more notes. Opposite me, Hunter was dozing, thick eyelashes casting shadows on his cheekbones. I took the opportunity to pull the guidebook he’d dismissed earlier out of my bag and began reading some more. ‘Don’t let their views and writing influence yours.’ His deep voice was soft in deference to the others around us. I jumped anyway. ‘I thought you were asleep.’ ‘Resting my eyes.’ ‘Well, go back to doing that then.’ He shook his head. ‘I’m trying to help you.’ ‘Thanks. But I don’t need your help.’ ‘Oh yeah. That’s right. I forgot. Mia always has to do everything by herself. Just to prove she can. She doesn’t need anyone. For anything.’ ‘There’s nothing wrong in wanting to do things for yourself. It’s not a crime, you know.’ ‘I never said it was. But right now, you being stubborn and a pain in the arse is hurting you way more than it’s hurting me, if that’s your intention.’ ‘Of course it’s not! Guess what, Hunter? Everything isn’t always about you.’ ‘Oh boy. Believe me, that I know.’ He turned and looked out of the window for a moment, and I could see his sharp features reflected in the glass. His jaw was tense and the muscles in his neck were cabled. He took a deep breath and tilted his head from side to side, a crack emanating from his neck as he did so. ‘Ouch.’ I pulled a face. ‘It’s fine,’ he said, dismissing my concern. ‘Look. What I’m trying to say, without being condescending or any of the other things you’ve labelled me as, is that you need to write as you. You read too many of these guidebooks and you can end up sounding like one yourself. Jeremy, and those two,’ he indicated Olivia and Sandeep across the cabin, ‘want colour, feeling, atmosphere. They want your writing. Your voice.’ I looked up from where I’d been staring at the cover of the book. ‘I’ve been doing this a while and I’ve seen newbies…’ He held up his hands, palms facing me, as I frowned. ‘I’ve seen people new to this area mess it up. They’re trying so hard that they forget why they were picked to do it in the first place. Whatever happened between us is nothing to do with this. I can see what this means to you and, even though you weren’t my first choice to work with, I want it to be right for all of us. You spend your time trying to be something – or someone – else, you’ll forget who you really are.’ He sat back in the seat again as I thumbed the pages of the book, running my fingers over the paper edges as his words filtered into my brain. He was right, of course. And, as much as I hated it, I knew I could learn from him and his experiences. If he’d let me. I was pretty sure the only reason he was sharing this piece of knowledge now was down to the several champagne top-ups he’d had during the flight. It had always made him pretty mellow. I guess not everything about him had changed. Chapter Five (#ulink_0ed1e473-d349-5332-b383-d5d3a2a83b7d) It was evening by the time we landed and made our way through the large, airy terminal at Delhi. ‘Bit of a difference to how it was before, eh?’ Sandeep made a gesture to Hunter, encompassing the surroundings. Hunter laughed an easy laugh. ‘Just slightly. God, it was dingy, wasn’t it?’ ‘Hardly went along with India’s image of a burgeoning economy.’ Hunter shifted his shoulder and moved his rucksack higher, nodding in agreement as he did so. I cast a glance under my lashes at him. I’d always loved travelling, although most of my experiences’ had been of the armchair kind. Truth be told, I was dying to ask Hunter about all of his travels and the work he had done in the time since we’d split up – an event that had been shortly followed by his career going stratospheric. I’d given in to temptation and done a little more research on him once I’d found out we were going to be working together. I’d always known he was a brilliant photographer but it was like he’d taken it up and beyond everything he’d done before. The photos ranged from stunning to incredible to moving and shocking. His images conveyed beauty and fear, joy and devastation. His work was varied but the quality wasn’t. It was easy to see why he was so much in demand, and why my boss was so pleased, and surprised, that he had agreed to do something like this. But it was clear he was very fond of Olivia and Sandeep so, assuming not everything had changed about him, it didn’t surprise me that he’d agreed to it. My mind wandered back to the woman he’d been dating, the one he was supposedly doing the favour for. From seeing his warmth towards Liv and Sandy, I got the impression they were more the reason he was here, rather from any sense of obligation caused by his break-up with Ilana. ‘You’ve been here before then?’ I asked Hunter as we paused for a moment. Sandeep was giving a quick scan of the many drivers waiting for pick-ups at the arrivals gate, looking for the one from our hotel. Hunter shifted the rucksack again. ‘Yeah. Few times.’ He glanced down at me. ‘I think you’ll like it.’ I looked up, not able to keep the excitement off my face. India had been on my wish list for ever but I’d never quite managed it. ‘Really?’ A smile tempted his mouth, and the corners of his eyes crinkled just slightly. ‘Pretty sure. It can be a bit of a culture shock.’ He tilted his head at me, ‘But you look like you’re ready for it.’ For a moment, I forgot all the tension between us. Right now, I was just excited and practically bouncing to share it with someone. ‘I’m so excited!’ I blurted, before casting a glance up. ‘I know that’s not terribly professional. And yes, I know I’m not on holiday and I should be all calm and acting as if this were just another normal day for me, like you are… but I’m sorry, I can’t! I’m in India! And yes, I’m well aware that’s probably another tick on your list as to why I shouldn’t be here, but right now, I don’t care.’ He nodded at Sandeep as he spotted the driver from the hotel. ‘Here we go.’ His comment – or lack thereof – confirmed to me that he agreed with everything I’d just said about my excitement probably not being the proper behaviour for a professional travel journalist. I hoisted my laptop bag over my shoulder and grabbed my suitcase. Hunter stood back and indicated for me to go first, as he followed behind. ‘It’s OK. I’ll catch up,’ I said, juggling my hand-luggage bag. Hunter leant over and took it from me, tossing it over his other shoulder. ‘I’d rather you were in front.’ I frowned. ‘Trust me.’ And despite everything, I absolutely did. I nodded and set off, following Olivia and Sandeep, who were in front of us, Sandeep chatting amiably with the driver who had taken their luggage. He’d tried to take ours too but Hunter had waved him off with a smile. Liv clearly wasn’t one to pack light and the poor man was already struggling with a very full luggage trolley. It was hard to see how he would have dealt with trying to push two, but he’d been determined to try until Hunter had put him at his ease, laughing with the others about the amount of luggage they had, but without making it at the expense of Olivia. The driver had relented and, after checking with us several times that we were all right, had led us off towards our car. It was hard not to admire the diplomacy and kindness Hunter had shown. He’d always been good at putting people at their ease – a fact that had sometimes surprised people. His height and build could easily come off as intimidating, but he had always made an effort not to live up to that. Unless the situation warranted it. I imagined both aspects had probably come into play, and had their usefulness, over the past several years in his work. Heading out of the cool, air-conditioned atmosphere of the airport, the warmth of the Indian autumnal night surrounded us, as did the sudden noise and insistence of other independent drivers touting for business among all the travellers now spilling out from the clean, sanitised building into the dusty, cacophonous city. ‘Taxi, ma’am?’ ‘You want taxi? This way?’ ‘Taxi, ma’am?’ Drivers called and questioned from all directions. I shook my head, and kept walking, aware of Hunter close behind me. I could see now why he wanted me in front of him. Their presence and insistence was definitely part of the culture shock he’d mentioned. I wasn’t frightened but it was easy to see how it might feel overwhelming. There was nothing intimidating in their manner – they were in a competitive market and, with families at home to feed, they were doing what they could. It was all part of India, and that was, after all, what I was there to see and record. We reached the vehicle and the driver began loading in our luggage as Sandeep and Olivia got in the front row of seats. Hunter gave the driver a hand, and keeping his camera bag with him, climbed into the car next to me in the row of seats behind the others. There suddenly seemed a lot less room as he shuffled in his seat, reaching for the seatbelt, his body leaning towards me as he did so. The driver got in, checked everyone was secure and gave us all a big smile again before pulling out into traffic that seemed to have no discernible rules. Through the glass, I watched as the city and its contrasts became clear. On the pavement, a woman swept with a rough, apparently handmade broom, readying the area where she would spend the night. Children played, families ate and slept on the ground as supercars drove past them, bound for the high-rises and villas that had become more and more prevalent over the last decade or so as the divide between the haves and have-nots had also expanded. In front of us, Liv and Sandeep had their heads close together as they looked out at the colours, lights and life of Delhi. ‘You all right?’ Hunter’s voice broke into my thoughts. I turned to face him in the dim light of the car’s interior. ‘Yes. Why?’ He gave a little shake of his head. ‘Those guys at the airport can be a bit full-on.’ I chewed my lip for a minute. ‘It’s different, that’s for sure. And I can see how it could easily be a bit much for some people, even intimidating. It’s kind of an assault on the senses to start with. But I’m fine.’ He nodded briefly and turned to look out of his own window. I pulled on his sleeve to get his attention. Sandy and Liv were leaning forward, listening to something the driver was saying and I took advantage of the opportunity. Lowering my voice to a whisper, I met his eyes, dark as the night outside in the low light. ‘I know you think I’m naive and incapable—’ ‘I never said that.’ I pulled a face. ‘I appreciate you bringing up the rear at the airport but I’m fine. Honestly. I’m not some eighteenth-century heroine who’s going to be overcome and faint or anything. I know you’re thinking it’s the “right thing to do” or something – but I don’t need you compensating for me, or trying to look after me. Please don’t think I don’t appreciate your manners, but I can take care of myself.’ For a moment there was silence. Hunter’s face remained impassive but as the streetlight flashed across the car, lighting us momentarily, I caught the tense set of his jawline and recognised it from a time past. ‘So you said once before.’ He dropped his head and shook it, a breath coming out almost in a laugh, but not quite. Lifting his head, he turned back to me. When he spoke, it was in the same whispered tones as my own words had been. ‘Look. I don’t actually give a shit as to whether you feel out of your depth, overwhelmed or whatever else the hell you feel – which could be anything, because you’re sure not good at letting anyone know what that is. Those two,’ he pointed at the couple in front, now engrossed in conversation with the driver, ‘need us both and I have no intention of wasting time scouring the city, just because you got yourself lost, or freaked out or whatever. I put you in front of me so I could see exactly where you were. For my own comfort. Not yours. So you really don’t need to worry about me doing stuff to try and be the hero when it comes to you, Mia. Believe me, I learned a long time ago that you don’t want anyone showing you anything that might remotely be construed as taking care of you. I might have been stupid enough to believe I could fight against that once, when I wanted to, but I’ve been there, done that. As you said, you’re more than capable of taking care of yourself – but like it or not, we’re here as a team and, as other people I’ve worked with know, I’m happiest when I know exactly where my other team members are. Don’t go getting on your high horse and thinking you’re special. You’re not. It’s logistics. Nothing more.’ He turned away, his broad back now facing me, ending the conversation. Part of me knew he was right. Part of me was mad as hell. And part of me was hurting far more than I knew it should be. I chose to focus on the “mad as hell” bit and ignore the rest. ‘You know, I’m really happy your career has gone so well, but it’s a shame it’s turned you into such a pompous, arrogant arse.’ Hunter looked round. ‘Excuse me?’ ‘You accuse me of thinking I’m special when in truth you’re the one thinking you’re so bloody special and experienced.’ ‘I am experienced!’ ‘Yes, I know. And I appreciate that. What I don’t appreciate is your high and mightiness! You were always confident, Hunter, and it was attractive. Now you’re just arrogant – and it really isn’t!’ He gave a derisive snort. ‘Funny that I don’t give a shit about what you find attractive any more, isn’t it? Being a team, and knowing where everyone is, is for safety reasons. You dawdling, or getting caught behind, means I don’t know where you are. And it’s important that I do.’ I opened my mouth, but he cut me off. ‘Mia. Whether you think it’s arrogance or not, shit happens and knowing where everyone is can literally be life and death. If you can’t work with that, then you should turn around and go home now because that’s the way it’s going to be. The way it has to be. And you need to get onboard with that.’ A thousand retorts were circling in my mind but the only thing I could think of was that, even in our whispered conversation, when he’d mentioned things being life or death, his voice had taken on a different tone. There was an edge of desperation to it that I couldn’t argue against, no matter how egotistical I wanted to make him out to be. That part, at least, had a deeper meaning than he was saying, and more than I was ever likely to find out. I looked down to where his hand had gripped mine. His gaze followed and he let go immediately, his expression showing a hint of surprise to find he had done so. ‘Sorry.’ He pulled his hand away and shoved it in the pocket of the light jacket he’d thrown over his T-shirt. ‘Hunter—’ ‘Here we are!’ Sandeep’s cheery voice rang out as the car slowed to a stop outside the five-star hotel. Two tall doormen, each dressed in ornate Sikh robes, opened the doors of the car as another hotel employee brought a brass luggage trolley up to the car and began unloading our bags onto it. He made a gesture towards the one Hunter still carried, but Hunter just smiled and held up his hand, indicating he preferred to keep it with him. His photographic kit had been worth a fortune when we were living together and I could only imagine he’d upgraded it in the time since. It made sense he’d want it close to him at all times. We entered through heavy glass doors, held open by the impressive and elegant doormen, and were greeted immediately by two extremely pretty female staff members who welcomed us to the hotel with garlands of marigolds, which they placed around our necks. They led us over to two desks, with Sandeep and Olivia at one and Hunter and me taking our place opposite the clerk at another. The paperwork was done smoothly and efficiently and we were accompanied to the lifts by a customer manager who had appeared, announcing himself as being pleased to show us to our rooms. The rooms were all on the same floor, with Hunter’s and mine being next to each other, and Liv and Sandy further up the corridor in one of the luxury suites. Having said that, my own room wasn’t exactly basic. Once the manager left, I set about exploring the room. On the bed sat a dark wooden tray which held a laundry bag and the requisite signs to hang on the door, along with an assortment of toiletries. More toiletries were artistically arranged on the vanity in the marble bathroom. A large bath and luxury shower took up one side, making me smile. I did love a bath and couldn’t wait to run one, relax back and soak for a while. Hopefully it would ease some of the tension I could feel tingling in my shoulders. I told myself it was from the travelling but I was fairly sure most of it had to do with having Hunter Scott back in my life, even temporarily. Flopping onto the bed, I was soon up again as the doorbell rang and a quiet, polite man delivered my luggage, taking care to put my case on the luggage rack and enquiring as to whether there was anything else I required. I assured him there wasn’t and handed him a tip before closing the door. I sprawled out on the bed again, having grabbed the room-service menu. It seemed ages since we’d eaten on the plane and I’d been too nervous and excited to eat much anyway. I ordered a sandwich and a drink and busied myself with unpacking the things I’d need for the next few days. The food arrived quickly and I finished it even quicker, before setting about running a bath. Emptying the contents of the entire bubble-bath tube into the tub, I stripped off and grabbed one of the soft, fairly-enormous-on-me robes from the back of the door, snuggling into its softness as I sat on the edge of the bath, waiting for the level to get deep enough. When it came to me and baths, that pretty much meant as full as I could get it without causing a flood. Someone had once told me they had “hip-level” baths. I’d looked at them askew and had briefly wondered if we’d actually be able to be friends any more. Hip bath? Seriously? What was the point in that? The bubbles skimmed the rim and I dropped the robe to the floor and stepped in. As I lowered myself into the warmth, I felt my worries and tension melt into the water. Relaxing back, the water licked up on my hairline and I closed my eyes. Which was when the doorbell rang. I waited for the announcement of “housekeeping” so I could call back that it wasn’t required, and cursed myself for not hanging the Do Not Disturb sign on the door before I’d got into the bath. But no further request came. I knew I’d put the catch on the door so I wasn’t worried about any staff members coming in to do something and getting an unexpected surprise. I figured someone had just got the wrong door, realised and moved on. I sloshed about a bit more in the water, getting comfy, and closed my eyes again. Diiiing doonnnng ‘Who is it?’ I yelled, fighting to maintain my politeness. After all, I was the one who had forgotten the Do Not Disturb tag. ‘It’s me.’ The deep South African tones came back, a slightly terse edge to them. ‘Are you going to open this damn door?’ ‘No!’ ‘Mia, don’t be—’ ‘Remember how you wanted to know where I am at all times? I’m in the bloody bath! There! Happy now?’ So far, since meeting again, several of the heated exchanges Hunter and I had shared had been in whispers. I didn’t miss the fact that we had apparently now gone to the opposite end of the scale and progressed to yelling through doors at each other. ‘I’m ecstatic.’ His flat tone told me he was anything but. ‘I need to talk to you about the next couple of days’ itinerary.’ ‘Now? I thought we were going to do that over breakfast tomorrow. Isn’t that what Sandeep said earlier?’ ‘They’ve changed their minds. Liv’s seen the list of spa treatments on offer and wants to chill out and do a bunch of those tomorrow. Sandy’s happy to go along with that so things have been shuffled a bit. Plus, you and I have the extra stuff we’re doing for Jeremy to discuss. You know, your possible big break…’ His tone dripped with sarcasm and I thought about what else I’d like to put a big break in right now. ‘Can’t it wait?’ ‘No.’ ‘Half an hour? I said I’m in the bath.’ ‘No. I’m tired. I want to get to bed.’ ‘Well, go to bed then! I’m not getting out. I just got in!’ ‘Mia. Open the damn door.’ I seethed for a moment. Neither of us spoke. ‘Are you still there?’ ‘Yes.’ ‘Are you going to go away?’ ‘Nope.’ ‘Oh, for…’ I stood, splashing water as I stepped out of the bath, and made a vicious grab for one of the thankfully enormous bath sheets, wrapping it around myself. Stomping to the door, I slammed back the catch and yanked it open. Hunter stood there looking annoyingly fresh. ‘I seriously can’t believe this couldn’t wait. Or are you just trying to be intentionally irritating so I’ll give up and you can give Miss Booty Call a shout to come out and join you instead. Because if you think that’s going to happen, it isn’t!’ ‘The thought hadn’t crossed my mind.’ His eyes flicked to the towel and back up again. ‘I don’t know why you’re making such a big deal. It’s not like it’s anything I haven’t seen before.’ I gave him a look. ‘Not recently!’ ‘I can’t imagine you’ve changed all that much.’ I pulled the towel tighter, risking the circulation flow from my chest down. ‘I’d rather you didn’t imagine anything, thank you very much.’ He gave a laugh and shook his head. ‘Don’t flatter yourself.’ I bit back the retort and aimed at being the grown-up, stepping aside to let him in. He entered, his posture supremely casual and relaxed, as opposed to mine, which had racked right back up into super-tense levels. When we’d been together, Hunter had always been the calming, relaxing influence in my life. When I was stressed he’d always known just what to say – and sometimes do – to melt all of the tension out of me. I didn’t miss the irony that he was now the one putting all the knots into me instead. The door to the bathroom was open, a trail of damp footprints leading from the bath. Hunter’s gaze ranged lazily over the full bath. ‘You can get back in if you want. I can talk to you from here.’ He strolled over to the sofa next to the window, slung a folder on the table and sat down. I glared at him. ‘And how am I to go over these oh so important documents that couldn’t possibly wait another half an hour from in there?’ He looked up at me. ‘All right. Then go get back in and call me when you’re ready and I’ll come in. I’ll hold them up to you.’ ‘Like that’s going to happen.’ He shrugged. ‘Your choice.’ ‘No. Actually not my choice at all! My choice was to stay in the bath for at least the next two hours and make some attempt to soak away all the stress you’ve succeeded in building up in me over the past few days.’ ‘It’s not intentional.’ ‘No. Apparently, it comes quite naturally.’ He dropped his head and let out a sigh. ‘I’m sorry you feel that way. I’ve tried to explain the way things need to work, and why.’ ‘Yes, which I understand. What I don’t understand is why this…’ – I waved my hand to encompass the paperwork in front of him – ‘couldn’t wait half an hour. You seem determined to try and make me slip up, or look bad… or something, just so you can prove to everyone, including yourself, how you were right all along.’ He gave me a look I couldn’t make out then let out a sigh. ‘No. You’re right. This could have waited.’ He stood, gathering up his stuff as he did so. ‘Oh no! You insisted this was so important it couldn’t wait, so we’re bloody well going to do it now. What is all this anyway?’ I reached over and took some of the paperwork from him. ‘Don’t you think you ought to get dressed or something first?’ I gave him a look. ‘You were the one who said you weren’t fazed, and how there’s nothing new for you to see anyway. Not that you can see anything.’ I glanced down, just to check, but yep, the towel was still fully in place and reached halfway down my shins. ‘It’s not that. Your arms have goose pimples all over them and you’re starting to shiver.’ ‘I’m fine.’ With my haughtiness level on full, I’d been desperately trying to avoid the fact that the air conditioning had kicked on. He gave me a look that told me what he thought of that statement. ‘Right. Wait here.’ ‘Yes, ma’am,’ I heard him mumble sarcastically as I marched off, back towards the bathroom. I cast a longing look at the bath, the bubbles popping and disappearing as I watched, before dropping the towel and replacing it with the oversized bathrobe. I yanked the belt around me, double-knotting it just in case, and stalked back out to the sofa, where Hunter had now retaken his position. I sat down next to him. ‘OK. So tell me what I need to know.’ Chapter Six (#ulink_d688c33b-f74b-543d-a910-17d0ce044f30) The next morning, far earlier than was polite, I headed downstairs to where Hunter was waiting in the lobby. His large hands were wrapped around a camera body, brows drawn together as he concentrated on fitting a lens to it. He looked up as I arrived beside him. ‘Morning.’ ‘Good morning. Ready to go?’ ‘Yep.’ ‘Did you manage to grab some breakfast? There’s time if you—’ ‘Already eaten, thanks.’ In fact, I’d showered, eaten, dressed and made a few notes for our early-morning trip, all before I’d heard Hunter’s door close next to mine. By the time he’d left last night, after we’d gone over Sandeep and Olivia’s plans, together with the schedule Hunter had put together after liaising with Jeremy over the sort of thing he wanted, the bath was cold and I was too tired to get into it anyway. I’d flapped a flannel around myself so that I at least felt sort of human and then fallen into the soft, feather pillows and one of, if not the, most comfortable beds I’d ever been in. The constant arguing with Hunter wasn’t ideal but something had shifted once I’d plopped down next to him and we’d begun going over the best way for us to get the most out of this trip for Sandy and Liv, as well as for us and the work it could lead to. Jeremy had given me some vague ideas as to what he wanted but had said I’d need to get together with Scott, as someone familiar with many of the areas we were going to, and he’d show me the ropes and introduce me to people who could be useful. It had irked me to know I had to rely on Hunter for connections. I was used to doing things for myself and I liked it that way. But I also knew that digging my heels in and refusing to take any help from him could backfire on me in a massive way. I’d always been open to learning from other people’s experience, eager to absorb knowledge, and I knew the main problem I had in this situation was purely the source of that knowledge. I also realised that if I was to do the best job I could on this assignment, I had to get over that hang-up. And quickly. Hunter fastened his bag, slung his camera over his shoulder and stood. ‘Ready?’ ‘Absolutely.’ He led the way to the doors of the hotel, and we stepped out into the early-morning warmth, the soft light casting a glow over everything, including Hunter’s features. He’d not shaved this morning, and dark stubble covered his jaw, highlighting the hollow beneath his cheekbones in a way that rivalled anything the Kardashians could achieve with contouring. His hair was cropped, and a tan line at the back of his neck hinted that he’d been wearing it a little longer previously as a line of paler skin peeked out. A pair of sunglasses perched on top of his head. Glancing around, he suddenly smiled as a man hurried up to him, grinning widely. ‘Hey, Jayesh!’ ‘Hello, hello! It is a pleasure to see you again.’ The man’s smile and easy manner were infectious. ‘I am so glad to see you back in Delhi. Is it for business again this time, or perhaps pleasure?’ He cast the slightest of glances at me. Hunter laughed, without even looking in my direction. ‘Definitely business. As always. Jayesh, this is my colleague, Mia Walker. Mia, this is Jayesh. One of the best drivers in the city.’ ‘It is a pleasure to meet you,’ Jayesh smiled. ‘And you,’ I returned, my mind processing the sound of Hunter’s voice introducing me as his colleague. It sounded odd to my ears. Probably because I’d had several years of being introduced as something far different, and even though that was a while ago, the sound of the initial words had taken me back to a different time. Momentarily. ‘Shall we go?’ Jayesh asked, pulling me from my thoughts. I nodded and Hunter and I followed Jayesh down the hotel drive to where he’d parked his car. The city was just waking as we drove along. Breakfasts were being cooked on the street and young children toddled about near steaming pots in a way that made me anxious. Shops and stalls were being prepared for opening and as we travelled away from the very centre, more cows could be seen wandering along, their sacred status ensuring they were given right of way. I took it all in: the colours, the smells, the dust, the smog I could see hanging on the horizon as we stopped in traffic and I looked across at the Lutyens’ skyline. My head was tumbling words and I snapped some pictures with my phone as we moved along, just to act as a reminder and prompts. Hunter nodded at the phone as I scanned a few of the photos I’d taken. ‘Not trying to do me out of a job, are you?’ I looked up at him, expecting the serious look I’d quickly become used to, but instead there was the hint of a smile. ‘Hmm, I hadn’t actually thought of that. But now you mention it…’ I tapped my jawline with my finger as though pondering over a situation before sliding my glance to him. His smile widened a little. ‘Touch?.’ I smiled back and momentarily he held it. It seemed it was time for a truce, and secretly I was pleased. This trip excited me more than anything had in a long time. It wasn’t ideal that Hunter and I had been forced into a proximity closer than either of us wanted or felt comfortable with for such an amount of time, but it was how it was. I didn’t want the experience ruined for anyone by us two bickering. ‘Here we are.’ Jayesh pulled up outside what looked to be a park. ‘I shall wait here. Don’t hurry.’ Hunter gave Jayesh a quick double pat on the shoulder and we exited the car. I followed Hunter as he headed towards the entrance to the park. ‘So, this is Purana Qila. It’s one of the oldest forts in Delhi. When I first came, there was nothing around to tell you what was what, or what it had been, but, like a lot of Delhi now, they’ve caught on to the tourism potential and nowadays there’s plenty of signage and details giving you the history of the place. It’s more of a park than anything else these days, certainly for the locals, and there’s a boating lake and stuff. But it’s got a great atmosphere. Quite a lot of families will come and just enjoy the park and it’s quite popular with couples. Romantic, apparently.’ I let the cynicism – something Hunter had never demonstrated in the time we’d been together – slide. It was hard to do anything else as I took in the surroundings. Ruined walls centuries old, a wide park offering plenty of shade from the Indian sun with families and couples, as he’d suggested, already taking advantage of their day off and walking through the calm, green space. The bright, jewel-rich colours of the women’s saris were highlighted against the green of the trees and the sandy red of the rock, making them shine out even brighter. Just from the short time I’d been in the country, the one word that kept coming back to me about India was “colour” – and perhaps noise! But here the sounds of the city, the traffic and constant beeping of horns, was kept out. It was truly peaceful and relaxing. I turned and noticed Hunter watching me. His broad body was at ease, shoulders relaxed, classic Aviators covering the deep-blue eyes. ‘Sorry.’ I couldn’t help the smile that still covered my face. ‘Just taking it all in.’ He lifted a hand. ‘No worries. We’ve got the whole day. Take it in. That’s what it’s all about. Obviously, we’ll go to some more out of the way places as well, but I like it here and I thought you would too. It’s kind of an antidote to the craziness of the city outside these walls.’ ‘It certainly looks that way. Can we explore a bit more?’ ‘Sure. If we head this way, we can get up onto the walls.’ We spent a couple of hours at the fort, just walking, talking sometimes and sometimes not, but for the first time the silences didn’t seem strained or tense. We were both absorbed in our jobs and the experience. The peace of the surroundings seemed to be ebbing into our own bodies – and I could honestly say I was glad of it. As the day passed, Hunter and I visited places all over the city, from world-famous landmarks like India Gate, Humayan’s Tomb and the Red Fort to off-the-map little back streets full of the most amazing things for sale. I loved every moment, making notes, snapping pictures, and soaking up every ounce of atmosphere that I could. Hunter was generous in his sharing of a world he was already familiar with, and in introducing me to people, as well as giving tips on making my own contacts. ‘Hungry?’ he asked as we stood aside to let a motorbike carrying an entire family of five pass. ‘Starving, actually, now you mention it.’ I’d been so caught up in the experience, it wasn’t until I thought about it that I realised how long it had been since we’d eaten. ‘Me too. Come on. I know a great place.’ We wandered through the streets, curious stares and smiles following us as we did so. Hunter was kind of hard to miss with his height and size and, although I wore a hat to protect me from the now full-on heat of the day, my pale skin and blonde hair didn’t exactly help me blend in either. Конец ознакомительного фрагмента. Текст предоставлен ООО «ЛитРес». 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