Page 143 of Perfect Satisfaction

Joshua Basset was spotted entering the famed Burj Al Arab hotel, managed by the Jumeirah group, in Dubai. After checking into one of the hotel’s exquisite suites, he was spied roaring off in one of their complimentary Lamborghinis—jet-setting at its finest.

What we really want to know is if the CEO is here for the business deal of the century?

Some of MSW’s largest contracts are rumored to have been signed inside this magnificent establishment right before the parties enjoy a privately catered meal.

I can almost taste the southern Mediterranean spices lingering on my tongue.

—Moore You Know

“I have to go away for a few days.”

“Where to?”

“London.” I begin rubbing my temples. “I really don’t want to.”

“Then why do it?”

“Because JB dropped the equivalent of a nuclear bomb on me at the last minute.”

“Want some company?”

“Sure.”

“Really?” His voice holds a level of excitement I haven’t heard in days. I know it’s my fault, but I can’t get the pictureSexy and Socialposted of him and Liza Hina out of my head.

Would he go to her while I’m away and JB’s in Dubai?The thought presses into my head, causing me to rub my forehead furiously. “I’ll have no time to show you around.”

“Define no time,” he probes.

“Typically, I’m in the office by seven. If I leave by eight, that’s a good day. Plus, it’s only four days I’ll be gone if you include flight time.” I pull out my iPad and check to make certain my itinerary has been sent. I’m pleased JB’s assistant was able to get me business class at the last minute, more pleased I’ll be flying first on the way back. “These trips exhaust me.”

“Then don’t go.”

“Don’t ask that of me, Arek.”

He surges out from behind me, causing me to fumble the device. “I’m not saying that because of the fact I’m irritated you’re going to see Basset.”

I roll my eyes. “Please. Drop the bravado. It really isn’t that attractive of a trait.”

His mouth gapes open and closed. “I am trying to have a serious conversation about your welfare.”

I drop my head back on my shoulders and count to ten. Then I count again. Finally, I explain, “This is normal for me, Arek. I’ve just been spoiled these last few months. But to address any concerns you may be having, will it soothe your irrational jealousy to know Joshua will not be there?”

“Irrational? Whose jealousy are you calling irrational, Sula?”

“Don’t start,” I warn him. I’ve managed to avoid a discussion about Liza. I know my brother is taking this meeting in Dubai partially because she’s been calling his London residence persistently.

He gets himself under control before gritting out, “Why are you going if he won’t be there?”

“Precisely for that reason. His main project team is at a critical juncture, but he’s required to be in Dubai for some reason he won’t disclose.”

Arek blinks at me for a few moments. “In all the time we’ve lived together, I’ve never seen you with any down time unless I dragged you away from your office.”

“Noticed that?”

“Your job is always this intense?”

“Yes.”