School’s out for summer.
Chapter 3
Harleigh
The moment I step out of the aeroplane; the heat hits me in the face. I take a few moments to relish that feeling. It’s like that little bit of sun melts a small amount of ice from around my heart and I feel like I can breathe easier. The freedom to do whatever I want is like winning a million pounds.
I was a kind, caring person before Martin got his claws into me, but now, I feel like I’ll never trust and enjoy the company of another man again. If I’m out with my family for a meal, I look down at my hands and feet all the time, because I hate making eye contact with strangers. I hate that I feel so weak and small. I hate the insecurities that follow me around now.
Walking through the airport, claiming my baggage, and then finally finding my driver holding my name plaque, it was all done in a bit of a blur. I was nervous and excited about being here alone, but now I want to explore and see what Bulgaria has to offer. I want to hide in my own little bubble while I’m here and just enjoy my time without trying to please everyone around me. This is very much out of my comfort zone, but I can be anything I want while I’m here, because no one knows me, and no one knows what I’ve been through. I can swim, walk, sunbathe, and read as many books as I can. I have four weeks of me time, something I’ve not had a lot of lately. Well, I had a lot of time alone when I was with Martin, but I wasn’t allowed to do anything I liked.
“You visit here before, Miss?” asks Frank, my driver, breaking through the thoughts running through my head.
I shake my head, looking out at the magnificent views over the sea.
“No. My brother thought I’d love it here.” I roll my eyes under my sunglasses, because as much as I want to disagree with Gavin, I know I’ll really enjoy staying here. It has a nice feel to it already.
“Nessebar is a fantastic place. And The Ranch is the best hotel to stay in.” He speaks in broken English, but I can understand him well.
“Is it a new hotel?”
“New owner. Refurbished. Beautiful.” He kisses his fingers and makes me smile.
Frank manoeuvres us along the waterfront up a hill. The old buildings are magnificent. It reminds me of an old western style village. My heart rate picks up again, but this time, not because of any impending panic attacks.
“Here we are.” Frank turns off the car and gets out to help me.
I don’t know how much my brother paid for Frank’s services, but he has treated me like a queen since he picked me up thirty minutes ago. It certainly beats the coach transfer I’m used to taking on holiday.
I step out onto the cobbled street and look up to the hotel I’m staying in. Again, it’s a beautiful old building. It takes my breath away. It’s indescribable.
“Have a good trip, Miss.”
“Thank you, Frank.” I reach into my purse and hand him over a twenty lev note. I read in the tour guide that Gavin had inside the envelope with my tickets that Bulgarians live from their tips. I’ll take great pleasure in tipping people like Frank.
“No need. Your brother did all the tipping necessary.”
I take his hand and close his fingers around the note. “I am not my brother. Thank you for all your help, Frank.”
“My pleasure, Miss Harleigh.”
I walk into the hotel and head straight over to the receptionist. It seems like a calm hotel. Everything is still and beautiful. The perfect getaway for me to rest and relax.
“Hello. I have a room booked. My name is Harleigh Harrison.”
“Yes. Welcome, Mrs Harrison.”
“Miss. It’s Miss Harrison,” I correct the young woman.
“I’m sorry. I shouldn’t assume everyone is married when they come here. I apologise.”
I shake my head. “An honest mistake. Please, don’t worry about it. I’m looking forward to exploring everything there is on offer here.”
“I hope you enjoy your stay. If I can get you anything, or assist with anything, please, just ask. You’re in room 12. Oliver here will help you to your room. There is a welcome pack in your room. It will tell you everything you need to know about the hotel.”
“Thank you.” I take my key card and turn to walk away when I bang into a solid, muscular chest. “I’m so sorry. I didn’t…”
I bend down to pick up my key card at the same time as the man I just walked into.
