Page 69 of Thrill

That small gesture. It meant the world.

“Thank you.”

“Go and have fun.”

“Bye, Dad.”

“Bye.”

Tyler terminated the call and wiped his eye. Taking a deep breath, he continued to watch the sea. Guilt washed over him that he’d probably ignited a huge row between his parents. His mother would be horrified that her son had even considered bringing another man. Still, it would look even worse if the bride’s brother wasn’t even there.

The dining room at the Ocean Hotel was all white. The chairs, the tablecloths, the walls, even the waiter’s outfits. It was quite arresting on walking in.

“Bloody hell,” Tyler said. “I’m glad I didn’t wear my white shirt.”

Amanda smiled. Then it vanished, as usual. Something that still bothered Tyler a lot.

One of said waiters led them to a table by the window. A beautiful sunset outside had painted the sky a deep pink.

“Oh, goodness,” Amanda said. “It’s beautiful.”

They both stared at the scene for a second until the waiter cleared his throat.

“Sorry,” Tyler said, taking his seat.

Amanda did the same.

Tyler had been dreading this moment. A one-to-one meal withAmanda had seemed a bit daunting. Now he was here, everything was fine.

Amanda looked great in a sparkly top and black trousers. He was determined to break down a few barriers.

“Your menu has been selected by Sunita,” the waiter explained. “She wants to show the place off. All I need to know if you are both okay with alcohol.”

Tyler sniggered. “I certainly am. Amanda?”

“Yes, please.”

Did he detect a hint of desperation in her tone?

Is she finding this difficult?

Tyler felt a little affronted.

The waiter sped off and Tyler settled. He opened his mouth to speak and his mind went blank. How to get the ball rolling?

“How’s your room?” Amanda asked.

“Stunning,” he replied. “Yours?”

“Really lovely.”

A moment passed.

“I wonder what food Sunita has in store for us. Is there anything you don’t like or are allergic to?”

Amanda huffed. “Really the waiter should have asked us that.”

Tyler nodded. “You’re not wrong there. Is that the first black mark against them? I’ve never reviewed a hotel before. The power.”