He comes to stand next to us. “Mr Lockwood,” he says, acknowledging me with a smile before returning his attention to Kat. “How was your trip?”
“It was amazing. I’m glad Jax convinced me to take it. You live in a wonderful part of the world.”
His cheeks darken.
“I won’t keep you. I just wanted to say, thank you,” he says suddenly. “I’ve just had confirmation that the sea breaks are being rebuilt in the next couple of weeks, which is a minor miracle. I don’t know how you managed to pull it off. The new beds are being shipped over and should arrive any day. The wine cellar has been fully stocked. Not to mention having you visit has been a real boost for the staff. They feel they’re finally being heard.”
Her mouth drops open slightly, a tentative smile building as his words sink in.
“Thank you.”
She holds out her hand, which he shakes with enthusiasm. “I’m glad my visit has been productive. Customer and staff satisfaction is something we take very seriously at The Frazer Group.”
Mr Baskin inclines his head and smiles. The first genuine smile I think he’s offered.
I don’t blame the man. It’s scary when the big boss comes knocking.
“No, Ms Frazer. This is all you. The industry talks. Your reputation is one of the best. I can see why.”
Kat’s shoulders relax, the tension leaving her body. She smiles, this one reaching her eyes.
“I try my hardest,” she says.
“It means a lot that you, the CEO, visited us. Have taken our concerns and needs seriously. It’s not usual. I just wanted you to know everyone here appreciates it.”
He inclines his head, offering an almost salute. He holds out a hand to me. “It’s been a pleasure meeting you, Mr Lockwood.”
I shake his hand.
“You too, Mr Baskin. Don.”
“Enjoy the rest of your evening.”
I smile.
Resting my hand on the base of Kat’s spine, I start us moving again.
Kat looks up and smiles.
“Not what I was expecting.”
It’s my turn to smile. “Sounds like a productive and successful day, all round.”
Kat nods, pulling out her room key and tapping it to the keypad. The light flicks green.
She turns towards me, stepping back through the gateway.
“What do you fancy?—”
Her eyes widen as she loses her balance and begins to fall backwards.
I react on instinct and catch her arms, pulling her hard against me.
She lands against my body with a whoosh, as the breath is knocked from her lungs.
Her hands rest against my chest, over my pounding heart.
Dark eyes look up, and I find myself drowning in their depths.
