She blinked, watched the doors of the lift swish open. ‘It’s been a tricky week,’ she said, flinching at the touch of his hand on the small of her back as he guided her along the corridor. He stopped outside a door, reached into his pocket and pulled out a key card, which he inserted into the lock. A rush of adrenaline coursed through her and she chewed her lip, wondered if she should say something. Turn round and go home.

‘This is your room,’ he said as he opened the door, indicating that she should go in first. ‘I’m across the hall if you need me.’ Her body sagged and she had to make a conscious effort to keep her relief hidden, make it seem like she’d assumed all along they’d be having separate rooms.

She glanced around the spacious bedroom, beautifully decorated in cream and gold and bronze, with a comfy seat by the large window. She put her bag down and walked over to study the view of landscaped gardens scattered with seating areas, trees and flower borders creating private nooks for relaxation. It looked wonderful and she was itching to get out there, stretch her legs and have a wander in the fresh air.

‘Do you fancy a stroll?’ he asked as he came to stand next to her, seeming to read her mind. ‘Then we can have dinner. I’ve booked us in for eight, so we’ve got an hour or so to settle in.’

She turned and smiled at him. ‘Oh yes, I’d love to explore the gardens. They look beautiful, don’t they?’ It would give her a chance to assert herself a little, she decided, make sure he knew she’d be able to pay back the money very shortly and then their deal could come to an end.

‘We can pick a spot to sit outside tomorrow. The forecast is good, so we might as well enjoy it.’ He sounded so happy, so evidently looking forward to their weekend, she was reluctant to spoil the mood. Relax, she told herself. There’s plenty of time to talk. Her hand rested on her chest, her heart still beating far too fast. She needed to calm down first.

James was in a chatty mood, and she found herself laughing at his dry observations as they wandered round the paths, testing out each seating area until they’d chosen one they would try to claim the following day. They were just heading back inside to get changed for dinner when her phone pinged. A message from Matt. Her heart stuttered and she stopped to read it.

How are your hen girls? Send pics.

She chewed her lip, sent back a quick message.

Not arrived yet. Will send pics later.

James raised an eyebrow. ‘Problem?’