Team Work [Sink or Swim Book 2]

Chapter 2 - Joanne and Martin

Joanne had moved out of her parents house on her return to the UK and chose to rent a three bedroom apartment in South Quay, Canary Wharf. The location was ideal for her work and University as it is was just short commute to the City of London. When she asked Martin to move in with her, he was easily able to travel along the A406 and A10 to the Tottenham Hotspur training facilities at 'Hotspur Way' located in Forty Hill, Enfield.

The apartment building itself was brand new and at 53 stories high offered unapparelled views of the London skyline. The onsite estate management team sat at a 24/7 front concierge desk and facilities onsite for residents included a fully equipped gym with stunning views of Canary Wharf and the River Thames; business meeting rooms with presentation facilities; Wi-Fi access to all amenity areas and a tranquil spa facility with swimming pool, sauna and steam room.

"Hey Lea, it was great that you came to visit. I know how busy you've become in the past year, you haven't even had time for a relationship. A few dates with Drew Deacon hardly counts!" Jo said hugging her friend at the door. "Hope you can come and visit us again soon."

"Drew and I just didn't  really work out, I'm fine with it. In fact I think I know someone more suited to him than me anyway. It's great being just friends." Lea replied. 

"You know, I really hope to get a place like this in London, I really enjoy living in Los Angles but there is no place like home!" Leanne continued, "Everything is just so expensive, even with the connections I've got. I don't really feel comfortable asking Dad for cash for another place!"

Jo laughed, "Yeah, I know London is such an expensive city to live in - even more expensive than Los Angeles. Anyways, hope to see you soon. You best get to your car or you'll miss your flight. Zoom me  when you get over the jet lag and find some free time!"

"Sure, will do. Your right I'd better get going, I can't miss my plane. See you Jo." Leanne smiled and hugged her friend. She turned and headed toward the exit and the cold, late night, dark winter air as Joanne made her way back upstairs to her apartment.

Martin was just stepping out of the shower when Jo entered the front door. "Did Leanne get away on time?" he said, laughing, as he emerged from the bathroom with only a towel sparing his dignity.

"Hmmmm, just, bit of a close thing really though." Jo said smiling, "I really miss the girls - I wish we were back together, it just didn't feel the same without seeing them all at Christmas."

Martin came over and gave Joanne a hug, "I know its such a shame you guys are all separated all over the world now. At least you have the internet and can still chat online. You were a great team together. You do realise though - we seem to have the place to ourselves again now!" He gave a little wink.

"Martin Braithwaite what are you suggesting?!" Jo said, pulling away, a little smile spreading across her face.

"Nothing, just thinking out loud about how quite it is now our guest has gone." he replied.

Joanne reached over and pulled playfully at the towel removing it so Martin was stood naked in the lounge. He placed his hands on his hips, spread his legs apart and smirked, "Jo you know that really wasn't necessary - you only had to ask and I'd have removed that for you."

Joanne's smile broadened as she saw the reaction Martin was giving her, "Surely not here in the lounge?"

"You know anywhere with you is great - hey - why not here?" Martin replied looking around the apartment, "Maybe you'd prefer the kitchen table?"

Jo gasped "Martin!" He started to walk toward her and she felt her pulse start to race. 

Joanne started to tremble inside as Martin reached her - it felt like a long three weeks with out the intimacy they had before Leanne's visit. He held her close and kissed her softly, then more passionately on the lips. Their tongues played for a time and Joanne reached down to feel his hardness with her hands.