“Thank you, Bethany,” I say, ignoring the fact that Jaxson and I have been grouped together.
Jaxson follows silently behind as we make our way down the jetty and onto the island itself.
Bethany motions us to enter a covered seating area. A server appears with a warm smile, a facecloth to freshen up, and a long, ice-cold, fruity drink.
We sit and listen as we’re given the standard welcome and explanation. Some is as I would expect at any FHG hotel, the rest is island-specific.
Other guests drift off one by one with their representatives.
“Ms Frazer, welcome.” A man approaches, his hand outstretched. “It’s lovely to have you with us. I’m Don Baskin, the general manager. I hope you had a pleasant flight.”
My professional persona locks back in place as I accept his hand.
“Mr Baskin,” I say, trying to infuse some enthusiasm into my tone.
“Don, please.”
I don’t return the offer, not yet. We’ll see by the end of the visit whether he earns the position of trusted staff member. Until then, it’s all professional.
“Is there anything I can get you while you wait?” he asks.
My scalp prickles. Something is off.
“Mr Baskin, I don’t mean to be rude, but it’s been a long trip. I’m sure Mr Lockwood, like myself, would appreciate being shown to our rooms.”
The colour drains from his face, and I swallow my groan.
What now?
Mr Baskin turns to Bethany. “Bethany, can you show Mr Lockwood to his water villa?”
“Of course.”
She plasters on a smile, but I don’t miss the lack of eye contact as she leaves.
“I’ll catch you later?” Jaxson says, his brows furrowing.
He’s also sensing something is off.
“I’ll drop you a message,” I say, wanting to get whatever Mr Baskin needs to say over and done with.
Jax and Bethany disappear.
Don’s body language changes as soon as they are out of sight. The man almost shrinks into himself.
“What is it, Mr Baskin?” I say, as my extremities start to twitch from a combination of impatience and exhaustion.
“There’s been a slight issue. I’m working with our maintenance team to get it rectified as soon as possible.”
His words come out thick and fast.
I close my eyes briefly and count to ten.
Of course there is.
“What’s the problem?”
His shoulders drop.
