Chapter 17: Partners, Part 8

Michael

I enter the hotel dining room where, at the far side of the room, I can see James seated at a table with the girl.

Neither has seen me, and I don't announce myself. I want first to see how she is, how she’s reacting to him. Certainly, on the face of it, it seems I have no cause to worry. She's laughing and joking with him, with a huge plate of food in front of her.

Well, she’s not scared if she’s eating like that...

There’s an odd expression on her face.

What is it?

Admiration? Adoration? Worship?

She may have only just met him a day ago, but whatever happened last night, she’s not in fear of him...

Time to introduce myself...

Trying to seem casual, I walk up to the table and the girl turns to me, looks up into my face...

... and I find myself lost in the emerald gaze of Charlotte.…

For the shortest of moments, words escape me, as I simply gaze into those eyes. Then I really look at her

Oh, my God…

She is stunning.