Paradise Bound

Chapter 29

It's Monday morning. My alarm ringing wakes me up.

I didn't exactly get a good night's sleep last night after my rather disappointing date with Isaac.

I drag myself out of bed and have a quick shower. I dry my hair and put on some makeup, purely with the purpose of covering up the dark circles under my eyes.

I slip on one of my work dresses and check myself in the mirror.

After a light breakfast I make my way to my office. I'm relieved that I don't bump into anyone on the way. I'm not sure I'm ready to face Isaac just yet.

After a busy morning spent at my computer it's finally lunch time. I decide to head to the hotel bar for lunch.

Will is behind the bar and his face lights up into a big heartwarming smile when he sees me approaching.

"Well hello stranger..... Can I get you your usual?"

"Yes, thank you Will."

I sit at the bar as Will places the order with the chef. He places a hot cup of black coffee in front of me.

"Looks like you could do with this?"

I look up and smile weakly at Will..... I must look like quite a sorry mess right now.

"Thank you..... You have no idea!"

"We I'm a good listener if you want to lighten the load?"

"Awh thanks, I appreciate that but...."

"You don't want to talk about it?"

"Not really.... It's nothing personal."

"Hey don't worry I don't get offended that easily. Although I would like to know what has you this upset?"

"What makes you think I'm upset?"

Will's eyes penetrate mine as he stares back at me intensely.

"Oh Tessa, it's written all over your face and.... your eyes.... They look different, full of sorrow."

I stare back at Will a little dumbfounded at how he could read so much from just my face. I guess I never really thought he noticed me that much before.

"Wow.... Am I that transparent?"

"Well I happen to be very observant.... Especially when it comes to your beautiful face!"

I blush a little under his stare. He winks at me in his usual friendly/flirty way.

"You are shameless aren't you?"

"Oh you love it really. A beautiful woman like you should be complimented every single day!"

"Hmm, well I don't happen to take too well to compliments in case you hadn't noticed?!"

"Oh I noticed. We'll have to work on that."

Will walks away as he serves more customers.

(Maybe I picked the wrong brother to have some fun with while I'm here. Things are easy with Will, firstly he's not pining over some ex-fiancé and he's not so broody and serious all the time..... But it doesn't matter how much I try to think of being with another man, no one can erase damn Isaac from my mind.)

When my food arrives I only pick at it, eating tiny mouthfuls. My appetite is completely gone. I'm just about to head back to my office when Mia comes bouncing into the bar with a big grin plastered across her face.

"Tessa, hello. I'm glad I caught you. You are coming to dinner here in the restaurant at 7pm. I don't want to hear any excuses. It's really important to me. I'll explain later."