Page 14 of Forbidden Desires

“What happened to his wife?” I ask, wondering about her boss. Being a single dad with two little girls and a busy career must be so trying.

“She died,” she whispers.

I cover my chest, feeling his pain. “Oh, that’s so sad, and those poor little girls.”

“It was a long time ago, but he’s never recovered. It’s a shame too. He’s such a genuine guy.” We walk a little farther through the grand foyer of the building, and I try to take it all in. The place is a little rundown, but it’s neat and tidy. Large plants sit by the double-story windows, and black leather sofas lined up back-to-back run down the center of the space. Flower arrangements in oversized vases adorn the reception counter, their sweet scent floating through the room.

“Where you will be working.” She points to the two large reception desks with two attractive girls assisting guests. She waves as she passes them. “Catie and Caroline, sisters. You’re lucky you’re working with them, they have both been here a while, and they’re super nice.”

They look friendly enough. She leads me through to an outdoor area with an expansive deck and pergola that meets the pool. There are also little groupings of outdoor tables with blue-and-white-striped umbrellas and sun loungers lined up facing the pool. This part of the hotel looks more modern. “This is so nice.”

“Strictly no staff using the pool, gym, or golf course. On or off shift. The guy who owns this place thinks it looks unprofessional. He’s a bit of a dick at times. Just keep out of his way and you will be fine.”

“Emerson’s brother?” I ask, making sure I have all this clear before I start my orientation.

She nods.

“I will keep that in mind.” We pass the pool area and head toward a large room with windows all down one side that look out over the view of the beach.

“This is the function center,” she says, pushing open the door. “Emerson’s baby.”

The floor is polished wood and the walls a soft white. There is a textured floral installation hanging from the ceiling that looksto be made up of dried flowers. It’s so pretty. The view, though, that’s what takes my breath away. It’s stunning. “This place is gorgeous.” I beam, just feeling lucky to be in this space.

“You can see why we are one of the busiest function centers in the area. People love to get married here.”

“I can,” I say in awe. The rest of the hotel looks so outdated, but this space is perfection. And the view is to die for.

“I’d better get to the kitchen and start my shift. Your orientation will start here in ten minutes. Are you okay if I leave you to admire the view while you wait for the others to arrive?”

“Of course. Have a good shift.”

“I’ll come check on you later in the day. I have lunch at one, if you want to join me?”

“Thanks, that sounds perfect. If I can, I will.”

She gives me a wave as she slips out the door, leaving me with the view of the ocean and the nervous butterflies that dance in my stomach. You can do this, Gisele.

Chapter 7

Gisele

Imove a little closer to the window so I can get a better look at the beach view. The ocean looks so inviting; its cool blue calls my name. I have always had a fascination with the ocean. Maybeit’s because I grew up so far from it. I don’t know, but whenever I would vacation with my parents, we would visit this beach in the Hamptons, and I would want to stay there forever. It’s the end of September, and today is heating up to be a warm one. I could go for a swim.

“Nice to see someone is keen enough to arrive early for orientation,” I hear a friendly female voice from behind me. Turning around, I see a pretty brunette wearing a navy suit paired with a cream silk shirt adorned with the company logo.

“Hope it’s okay I’m in here. I was just admiring the amazing view.”

She joins me, her presence exuding a sense of authority and confidence. “It is impressive. It’s one of the finest views around; that’s why our wedding couples go so crazy for it.”

With a tilted head, she assesses me thoroughly. “What department are you starting in today?”

“Front of house,” I reply, the scrutiny in her gaze intensifying my nervousness.

She continues to search my face. “What’s your past experience?”

Reluctant to disclose what I was doing back in New York, I hesitate before answering. The girl who interviewed me on the phone didn’t seem to care much about my past, and I prefer to keep it that way. “I worked on Broadway back in New York,” I offer, choosing to share only what’s necessary.

“Interesting.” She nods. “I’m Emerson Alexander, normally the wedding-and-events coordinator. But the hotel is undergoing some changes, and I’m now helping in recruitment and training as well.” She smiles warmly, and I feel myself relaxing a little. She must be one of the owners, and she seems nice.

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