Before I changed back into my jeans and top, I took a quick selfie in the mirror and sent it Ryan and then Lila, who would probably post it on her social media or something equally extra.
Ryan phoned me as I was leaving the hotel. I’d gotten used to speaking with him randomly over the last few weeks. Our relationship, or whatever we were terming it, had been more about texts and the odd, late night video call rather than unplanned day time check-ins that served no purpose other than to speak to each other.
“That dress is spectacular.”
His first sentence slowed my heart that had started to tap out a jig when I saw his name. I was bothered about what he really thought of the media getting hold of those photos. I was also pretty sure he’d know I’d spoken to the journalist about us.
“Thank you. The designer gifted it to me after the photographer sent him some shots. I’ll make sure to wear it in the next couple of weeks.”
“It looks stunning. What do I need to know for any questions? Are we sticking with the truth, just no details?”
I wondered then, standing outside one of Mayfair’s most upmarket hotels, exactly how rare Ryan O’Connell was. No drama, Mister Calm instead of Mister Calamity, and no huge ego to attempt to compete with.
It was just after I’d wondered that, that I also realised just how much this was going to fucking hurt when it ended.
I filled him in with what I’d told Camille. “They want us to do a shoot together.” Camille had sounded me out carefully about it. Her eyes had lit up like a dog’s when steak was being served when I hadn’t shot the idea down, just saying I’d have to check with Ryan.
I knew he’d modelled for a few campaigns, carefully chosen and not mainstream brands. The editorial I’d seen him in when I’d searched wasn’t that dissimilar to what I’d just done today, so I didn’t think it would be out of his comfort zone.
“I heard. The magazine have already spoken to Rhys. He was – I think the best word is ‘giddy’ - about it.” He sounded amused.
“I’m so sorry it’s all come out.”
“Why the fuck are you apologising, Otillie? You didn’t ask the receptionist to take the pictures, and it would have been found out at some point. There are statements prepared from both of us, and your – Jas, is she called? – has suggested that we go out somewhere we can be seen in the next week,” he said. “You’re coming this weekend, aren’t you?”
“If that’s still okay.”
“Stop sounding like this is your fault. We’re both in this. It isn’t because you’re an actress – anyone I was seen with would be photographed too. We just need to choose how we play it.”
I liked this tone far more than I should. He sounded bossy. In control. Confident. There was nothing passive aggressive about what he was saying. I wouldn’t spend an hour later on today trying to stop myself from analysing what he’d said.
“How about you book us a restaurant in Manchester, and I’ll let Jas know which one so she can tip off a pap.” Which was basically how it worked a lot of the time.
“Sure. I have to go – I’ve got a session with the physio but let’s speak later. And Otter?” he paused.
“What?”
“Stop worrying. Just go and enjoy your day. And bring that dress to Manchester.”
I knew I was smiling. “I will. Enjoy your physio.”
CHAPTER13
Ryan
The first personI went to after Otter phoned me to let me know about the photos was in her office, attacking a punch bag hanging from the ceiling with enough force to make me question whether the ceiling from which it hung would withhold the attack.
For more than a minute I watched Genevieve Trembley pummel the fuck out of an inanimate object without her having any clue I was there.
What made it even more remarkable was that she did this in heels.
She stopped gracefully and removed her gloves, placing them carefully on the shelves next to her desk. Then she turned around and saw me in the doorway, the door of which had been open.
She sat behind her desk and folded her arms, totally pretending that I hadn’t just witnessed her walloping the punchbag.
“I need to make you aware of something that’s going to hit the press in the next few hours.” I also needed to give myself a good kicking that I hadn’t taken Nate’s advice and come to see Genny already.
She looked up and gave me a smile that was very forced. “Do tell.”
