Page 69 of The Best of Times

“What on earth are you playing at?” Aron cried out.

Paul wasn’t listening. He led Aron into the small building.

They were met with a tiny reception area that had two plastic seats and a stunningly attractive woman behind the cash desk.

“Hello, Mr Higgs. So nice to see you again.”

What the fuck? He’s been here before?

“Twice in two days,” she continued. “You’re very keen.”

“I certainly am.”

Aron’s heart rate pulsed. If this was Paul’s idea of spicing things up, Aron was not on board.

“Is this where you sloped off to yesterday afternoon?” Aron said.

Paul nodded. “Just wait.”

He tried to pull away but Paul held firm.

“Have you got the key, Chariya?”

She nodded and reached under the counter. Chariya produced a set of keys that she handed to Paul.

“You know the way,” she said.

“Have you been busy?”

She shook her head. “All the customers are Christmas shopping.”

It was a depressing response. Aron didn’t have time to reflect. He was more worried about what else Paul had in store.

Paul led him through into the rear of the building. Aron managed a weak smile for Chariya who seemed totally nonplussed at his presence.

There was a steep staircase to the left. In front were sets of doors in an L-shape.

They scaled the stairs. The next floor had another set of doors. The third floor seemed to be a staff area. Changing rooms and a small kitchen were empty.

“What the hell is going on?” Aron asked.

“You’re out of breath?” Paul replied. “I thought you lived in the gym.”

Aron had been focusing on weights recently to pump up his muscles. He regretted neglecting the cardio.

That left one more flight of stairs with a steel door at the top. Paul started to ascend.

“If you’re planning on murdering me or keeping me here as your sex slave, can I please attend Granny’s wedding first?” Aron said, still in the grip of Paul’s hand. “She would be so annoyed.”

Paul sniggered. “Duly noted.”

He unlocked the heavy door and pushed it open. He gestured Aron to come up the last few steps and through the doorway.

What greeted him knocked Aron for six.

Paul had revealed a massive loft space which spread the length of the building. The walls were exposed brick. They were at the top of the building with large beams and a high ceiling. Light flooded in through a number of small windows.

This time, Aron dragged Paul over to them. The view was exceptional. Famous London landmarks dotted the horizon like a personal I-Spy game.