Page 41 of Mayfair Madame

“Yeah, that’s probably a good indicator.”

“Naomi, everything is fine.” She squeezed my hand. “There’s nothing for you to worry about. But what about you? How does it work with your work? I’m guessing you’re bi or pan.”

“I’ve been with men, yes, and I am bisexual, but my preference has always been for women. In this job, I can pick and choose my clients.”

She glanced out of the window, her lips tight.

“I don’t sleep with my clients, Ellie. I haven’t for a while. You know my line of work, and at some point, I will tell you how I got into it, but for now, know that the only sex I want to have is with you.”

“Really? Even after last night?” She asked, her eyes wide. Did she not believe me?

“Yes, even after last night. I still like you, Ellie Sharpe, a lot.”

She looked away again, a smile on her face. Maybe she didn’t believe me, but I’d make damn sure she knew just how much I liked her.

Moments later, Nigel brought breakfast over, and the look on her face as she took her first bite was a picture.

“I told you it was good.”

“It’s more than good.” She ate piece after piece, but after a while, she slowed and pushed the plate away from her, the food half-eaten. “I should probably stop eating.”

And there it was, her insecurities rearing their head again. There was no way she was full after such a small amount of food.

“You should finish it. A nutritious breakfast sets you up right for the day.”

“I really shouldn’t. I’m full.” But her face told a different story.

There was no point in forcing her. “Hey, it’s okay. Do you mind if I…?”

“Please help yourself.”

Maybe Melinda was right. Maybe I was trying to fix Ellie, and maybe I’d fix myself in the process too.

Chapter Twelve

Naomi

It pained me to see Ellie so concerned about her weight. In my eyes, there was nothing wrong with her, but everyone’s perceptions were different. Was anyone happy with how they looked?

I wasn’t, but I’d come to terms with why, and it no longer caused me the anxiety it used to. If only Ellie could have that same ‘a-ha’ moment, but I feared she had a long way to go before she was anywhere close.

It made sense now why Ellie had wanted to meet at the bar last night and not come out for the meal. She’d clearly been hungry this morning but then realised the implications of her actions.

It didn’t matter that I’d chosen a place where I knew the food was healthy and nutritious. When you felt food was the root of all your problems, nothing would work.

But I was determined for us to have a carefree day, not one focused on food.

“You know what? Let’s have some fun. I can’t remember the last time I did something I wanted to do. Are you up for it, Ellie?”

“Of course. I don’t think I’ve done anything but work since I got here.”

“Then let’s put that right.”

Even this early on, the sun was beating down, and I had the perfect way to cool us off.

“Come on. I haven’t done this in years.” The sight of people out on the lake earlier inspired my idea. “Pedalo for two, please.”

I handed over my money, turned back to Ellie, and laughed.