Page 46 of Harper's Holiday Romance

“Mmm.” I licked my lips. “How good is that?”

Julia nodded in agreeance. “I forgot you haven’t been here before.”

“You have?” I asked.

“We’ve been to this resort a couple of times, so I’ve had this same seven course meal we’re about to have maybe three times before.”

“It must be good then?”

“It’s the best restaurant by far; you’ll love it,” Julia said with confidence. She looked radiant. Her sun-soaked skin against the white vest top was powerful on the eye. The indents in her forearms were prominent each time she reached for a drink.

“How did you know about this setup? Do you always meet girls on holiday and bring them for a romantic meal?” I teased.

“You think this is romantic then?” Julia countered.

“Shut up; just answer the question.” I finished off the last of my truffle soup; the waiter was quick to remove it and replace it with the second course. A slice of soft warm bread and a selection of butters.

“We have a truffle butter, a garlic butter, and parmesan with black pepper. Enjoy.” The waiter was so sweet. He had a soft voice and kind eyes.

“This is like heaven.” I put a small spread of all three butters on the one slice of bread. They were probably meant as choices, and the way Julia looked at me with her wrinkled nose confirmed this.

“What? I want to make sure I get the full experience.”

“I’m not judging, come to think of it, I think that’s a great idea.” She proceeded to add the other two butters to her bread.

“So, you didn’t answer my question,” I prompted.

Julia chewed her bread painfully slowly whilst she considered her answer. I didn’t mind watching her jaw’s range of motion. Even the way she ate was attractive. Whilst Julia ate with poise and grace, I was conscious I didn’t drop crumbs in my lap or leave butter trailing across my chin; either were a possibility.

“In all honesty.” She wiped at her lips with the napkin. “I booked this twelve months ago.”

“Oh.”

NowI was confused.

“Yeah, I erm, I was supposed to come here with my ex. We broke up three months ago, and my parents jumped on the trip last minute, so I didn’t come alone, but this little dinner was prebooked. I forgot all about it until we arrived, and the concierge reminded me.”

“Oh. I’m sorry.” I reached for the water in the centre of the table at the same time as Julia; our hands clasped around the bottle, her fingers layering over the top of mine. “Sorry.” I smiled.

“Allow me.” She poured us both a small glass. I admired her honesty, but it felt strange knowing she should’ve been sat there with someone else.

“This must feel weird for you then.”

“No, I thought it might, but I like the company.” She maintained eye contact. Her head was slightly downturned and her grin lopsided. She truly intrigued me.

“Why did you break up? If you don’t mind me asking.”

“She cheated... with my best friend.” She shrugged.

“Oh, shit. That’s awful.”

“It was tough, but that’s life I guess.”

“Do you still talk to them?” I asked.

“No, I haven’t spoken to either of them for a couple months, but she’s here—”

I looked around. “Your ex is here?”