Page 53 of Seasons of Sin

“Of course.”

“And when I’m back at my desk we’ll talk about your role going forward. I want you signed up formally as something more than a temporary administrator.”

“Okay,” Saphire’s heart swelled with pride and pleasure despite the turmoil she was feeling.

She let herself out of Melania’s apartment with a small smile on her lips. It lasted just as long as it took to walk back onto the street and cross over to the temporary offices that had been set up in Rome. There were only four of them manning the space; something more permanent would be arranged in time, but for now, it was as unimpressive as it was cramped.

“Hey guys,” she said without looking at anyone in particular. She bypassed her own little cubicle and stepped into Mel’s office, clicking the door closed behind her.

His email was crumpled in her hand. She unfolded it and scanned it slowly now that she was at liberty to dwell.

Attention: Ms Melania Brompton.

RE: CORPORATE SPONSORSHIP

I have a sizeable amount earmarked for charitable donations. I am willing to discuss becoming a named sponsor of your events. Call me to discuss.

Thaddeus Konstanides.

It was so like him.

No ‘please’. No small talk. Just pure fact. Business.

And yet he’d made the offer.

And it washercharity.

Rocco must have told him.

So what did it mean?

With fingers that shook slightly, she dialed the number he’d included at the bottom of his email.

It rang five times.

And then: “Konstanides.”

Her heart squeezed. Her brain hurt. Her heart ached. His voice sent arrows of remembered pleasure darting through her body. Sadness swept over her for that voice would never again whisper for her.

“Hello?” He was impatient. Gruff.

“Hello.” Her word vibrated with the tension that was now a part of her. “It’s me. It’s Saphire. Arana.”

“Mrs Arana,” he murmured, and it was impossible to tell from his words if he was surprised or even affected personally by her call. “What can I do for you?”

She frowned. Her nerves were quivering. “I’m calling on behalf of Melania Brompton. You emailed her.”

“So I did,” he drawled. “And?”

Sapphire winced. “She asked me to respond as she’s not well.”

“Did she indeed?” He stared out of his window, enjoying the view almost as much as Saphire’s sound of discomfort.

“Unfortunately, her illness means she won’t be available to discuss the details with you. However, she’s asked me to manage things on her behalf.”

His laugh sent shivers down her spine. “I see. How awkward.”

Saphire didn’t bother to deny it. “I can fly to meet you in Athens. Would you prefer me to arrange the logistics with your assistant?”