Page 27

I dragged my gaze back to my computer.

After going through the photos for a sixth time, I admitted defeat. A batch of better photos were not going to magically appear if I kept staring at my screen.

But if I could only submit two photos, I needed to cover myself with management. I could not afford any more complaints. My future and Mamma’s happiness were at stake.

I picked up the phone and dialled Victoria’s number.

‘Victoria, sorry to disturb you, but I have an issue with one of the couples.’

I explained my concerns about their initial interactions and the photos dilemma.

‘I appreciate you bringing this to my attention, but it’s still early. See how they get on over the next few days and if by the end of the week you’re still worried, let me know. As for the photos, submit the two you have and on the trip tomorrow, make a note to take some extra photos. Maybe ask them for some posed shots too and prompt them to smile or look into each other’s eyes. That way you know you’ll get some decent shots and hopefully when they see how good they look together, they’ll start showing more affection.’

‘Va bene,’ I agreed.

‘And check the screen straight after taking them to see how they’ve come out.’

‘I will.’

I had done that earlier, but they were in the middle of playing volleyball games so I could not ask them to stop and pose. Tomorrow would be easier though.

‘Good luck.’

‘Grazie,’ I said, sensing that I was going to need it.

11

SAMMIE

I stepped out of my room and smiled.

It was another gorgeous sunny day and as the heat warmed my skin, I thought about how lucky I was to be here.

I’d lived in London all my life, so I was used to waking up and seeing grey, cloudy skies. But here, the scenery was like a postcard. The sky was a beautiful clear blue shade and the surroundings were lush and colourful. This was only my third day here and I was already wishing I could stay longer.

After having another blissful sleep, I was feeling more positive. I’d thought about it and I’d come to the conclusion that the reason why I wasn’t into Edward was because I’d set my expectations too high.

Having seen how happy Stella and Jasmine were, I’d assumed that I’d come here and instantly fall head over heels. And because their boyfriends were the total package, I’d expected my match would be another Mr Perfect. But that wasn’t realistic.

If I’d met someone like Edward in London, I would’ve been content. He was an improvement on pretty much every guy I’d dated in the last two years, so I shouldn’t grumble.

Yeah, I hadn’t clicked with him as much as some of the other guys I’d dated, but that was the point of coming here, right? To push myself out of my comfort zone and try going out with adifferenttype of man.

The Love Hotel experts knew what they were doing. They’d matched hundreds of couples: including Stella. They’d put me with Edward for a reason. I had to trust their choice and roll with it.

Although Edward didn’t light my fire right now, like Stella said, I barely knew him, so I had to give him time to warm up. If I included today, I still had twelve full days left for the romance to grow. I just had to be patient.

I set off down the path that led to reception to collect yesterday’s photos. Although the pool volleyball wasn’t as fun as I’d hoped, I was looking forward to seeing our highlights in print. Then in just over an hour, we’d head off on the excursion which would help us bond even more. It was gonna be a great day.

Once I picked up the envelope, I went to the restaurant. I’d deliberately arrived extra early to have breakfast with Edward.

Yesterday, after I’d finished speaking to Stella, I’d had a shower, then went for a long walk on the beach which was amazing.

When I got back, I did my playlist and told myself I’d have a little cat nap, but then I ended up waking up after ten and I didn’t have the energy to go the restaurant, so I’d ordered room service. That meant I hadn’t seen Edward for dinner, so I wanted to make the effort to start the day with him today.

‘Buongiorno!’ I said to the maître d’, Tommaso, and Romeo as I stepped into the restaurant.

‘Buongiorno, Samantha.’ Romeo gave me a small smile and for some dumb reason my stomach fluttered. I must be hungrier than I thought. ‘I see you have been studying.’