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‘That’s a definite red flag.’

‘I know, right?’

‘Hmmm, well, I’m not liking the way that he left you for breakfast, blamed you for missing a volleyball shot and his food-shaming vibe, but because it’s the first day and we trust the matchmakers, let’s give him the benefit of the doubt. See how things go tomorrow and if you’ve still got concerns, then speak to your Casanova guy.’

‘Romeo,’ I corrected. ‘Although the ladies do seem to love him and he didn’t seem to mind them fawning over him, so Casanova is an accurate description.’

‘Oh!’ she said, sounding like she’d just had a brainwave. ‘WasCasanovataking photos of everyone during the pool volleyball match?’

‘Yeah.’

‘Great. So when I was at the Spanish Love Hotel and I went to collect the photos of our pool volleyball match, I was convinced they’d be terrible and all be shots of me and Max scowling at each other. But when I saw them, they were all surprisingly gorgeous. I was looking at Max like he was walking on water and he was looking at me like I was freaking Beyoncé, but neither of us had realised. I reckon that also helped us to see that there was something brewing between us, so it could be the same for you and Edward too. When you see the memory book pics that’ll definitely help you to bond. Don’t worry, I’m sure it’ll all work out.’

‘I hope so.’

‘Anyway, hon, I better get back to work, but good luck with the playlist, stay positive and let me know how the excursion goes tomorrow.’

‘Will do.’

As I hung up, another song came to mind.

‘Cold’ by Maroon 5.

So based on my song ideas so far, when I thought of my ideal match I felt wrongly accused, cold, numb and lonely.

Obviously, I wouldn’t include any of those tracks on my playlist because I didn’t want to be rude, but I was worried.

You didn’t need to be Einstein to work out that feeling that way about a guy who was supposed to be my perfect match wasn’t good.

But like Stella said, tomorrow was a new day and my feelings could change.

And after I’d spent time and every penny of my savings coming all the way here to find love, I really hoped she was right…

10

ROMEO

As I scrolled through the photos that I had taken of the pool volleyball tournament earlier today I blew out a frustrated breath.

This was the fifth time I’d looked at the photos of Samantha and Edward on my computer screen and I still could not find enough pictures of them looking happy together to consider printing for their memory book shortlist.

I had taken at least twice as many photos of them compared to the other couples, but I struggled to find more than two that were barely okay. And normally we aimed to provide at least six or seven amazing choices.

Samantha looked sad and frustrated, and in the photos where Edward was looking at Samantha, he was either scowling or had his lip curled in disgust. And I could not understand why.

When Samantha removed her kaftan to reveal a bold orange and white bikini, I am not proud to admit that my eyes roamed over her body for longer than they should have. But as soon as I realised I was staring, I quickly tore my gaze away.

I had no interest in dating right now and even if I did, like I had reassured my boss, I would never get involved with a guest. That would be stupid.

My point was, Samantha was an attractive woman. And based on our conversation earlier, she seemed to have a good sense of humour too, so I did not know why Edward was not making more of an effort.

I knew he was a guest, but I did not like him.

My phone rang and I was glad of the distraction.

‘Ciao, Mamma,’ I smiled.

‘Hi, darling. Sorry I missed your call earlier.’