“Okay.” She tucks an imaginary strand of hair behind her ear and smiles at me.
Harleigh is the opposite of the type of woman I’ve been attracted to before. She seems kind, quiet, independent. No woman has ever asked to pay for our lunch date. Maybe I’ve been attracting the wrong type of woman. Eurgh, what am I saying? Harleigh is only here on holiday. She won’t like the lifestyle I lead. I need to enjoy this time while it lasts because it will end very quickly. Life will return to normal in a couple of weeks and we’ll both be back to square one.
Chapter 7
Harleigh
Today has been a lovely day. As promised, Giovani has been the perfect tour guide. I’ve had fun. In fact, I’ve had nothing but fun since the moment I arrived in Bulgaria. It’s refreshing to feel light and untroubled. I’ve not had to worry about a thing since I left Scotland, and I really like that. It’s amazing how stress free I’ve been since I arrived here. It’s good for the soul and my mental health.
When Giovani and I arrived back at the hotel, he got called away to take care of something in his office. I found myself gravitating to the wonderful pool area. I ordered the cocktail of the day, found a sun lounger, took out my book, and started reading. The gentle chatter and laughter from the other holiday makers lull me into a relaxed state. I don’t know how long I’ve been sitting out here, but the sweat covering my body is a good indicator that I should probably cool off before I have to head out for dinner.
“Drinking already. You’re a badass.” Lucca plonks himself down opposite me and lounges back on the vacant sun lounger.
“Your brother said you were dead this morning.” I laugh.
He still looks a little green around the gills, but he’s up, walking and talking, so that’s a good sign.
“That was probably an accurate description. I felt like death warmed up when I did open my eyes. How was your day? I hope Gio treated you right.”
“Like a perfect gentleman. Today was lovely. Just what I needed after our wild night.”
“Speaking of wild, do you fancy another wild evening?”
I groaned. “I’m not a big drinker. Another night like last night and I’ll be digging my own grave.”
“I was being sarcastic. My head could not stand another wild evening too soon. My idea of wild is a barbecue, a few beers, and some decent company at my brother’s pool.”
I think over everything Lucca is saying. I don’t want to intrude. “Wouldn’t Gio mind? He’s been more than courteous since I arrived. He doesn’t have to babysit me.”
“Nonsense. Gio likes you. I like you, like an annoying sister.”
“Wow! Thanks, bro.” I mock and throw the strap of my bag over my shoulder. “If Giovani doesn’t mind then that sounds like a plan.”
“If Giovani doesn’t mind what?” His voice makes me jump.
Thankfully, my big sunglasses are hiding my gaze as it travels up and down his toned body.
“I was just asking Harls if she fancies coming over to your house tonight for a few beers and a barbecue.”
“Definitely. And to help you make your mind up, I’ll cook so you don’t end up with food poisoning.”
Lucca sits bolt upright and holds his hand over his chest. “I can cook, you’re just a cheeky arsehole.”
I giggle at the two brothers. They remind me of my own siblings – fun to be around.
“What do you say, Harls? You game for trying my cooking?”
“Absolutely. I’ll bring some drinks. What do you both like?”
“My brother owns a hotel. He has a cellar full. Just bring yourself.” Lucca jumps off the lounger and punches Giovani’s shoulder. “See you later, bro.”
Giovani shakes his head at his brother and sits down on the lounger Lucca just vacated.
“He keeps you on your toes.”
“He’s going to be the death of me.” We both chuckle. “You’re a lovely shade of brown already.”
“Good. The lobster look doesn’t suit me. So, about tonight, do you really not mind me tagging along?”
