Page 104 of What Happens in Dubai

‘Thomas, you’re early.’

‘We have a countdown to adhere to.’ He opened his jacket smoothly, presenting a bottle of expensive champagne. ‘Tell me there are glasses in here. We need a night to remember!’

Instantly I felt relieved; clearly he was still up for our shag fest.

‘They’re in the staff room, the second cupboard from the right. Your contract’s on the table too, if you want to sign!’

Tom growled. ‘I love it when you speak so authoritatively. You’re turning me on already, Zara Smith!’ he called out, shoving the staff-room door open as I laughed at his mischievous energy.

I was gathering the paperwork when the front door opened again and a handsome-looking Andy entered.

‘Hey!’ I felt my stomach twist.

He was dressed casually in a plain white T-shirt and jeans. His Mowry tattoos were fully on show and no longer peeking through his work clothes.

He looked nervous. ‘I’m glad you’re still here, Zara. I saw the shutters were down.’

‘Is everything OK?’ I asked, feeling anxious at him unexpectedly dropping by.

He nodded.

‘Is everything OK with the contract?’ I panicked.

He sighed a little, edging a smile. ‘No, no, that’s a done deal. Don’t worry about that … Fuck!’

I looked on curiously, waiting to hear what had brought him to the clinic. I’d never seen Andy look worried before. He was always so laid-back and chilled.

‘I just wanted to say something to you,’ he said. He sat down on the edge of the sofa, clasping his hands together.

‘Go on …’

His warm eyes looked up and engaged with mine briefly, and I suddenly felt more unnerved.

‘I just wanted to say that I’m glad you weren’t the one who went to Dubai.’

‘Aww, I am too—’

‘Please, let me finish. I’m glad because I like you.’ He looked right at me. ‘The way you’ve handled the turnaround is so inspiring. You were determined to transform this place, and you did.’

‘Aww, thanks, Andy. But I had all of you guys to assist me and, for what it’s worth, I like you too.’

He swayed his head. ‘Naw, I like you,like you! Look. It’s everything about you, Zara. The way you laugh at the things that aren’t even funny or find it impossible to eat something without wearing it for the day. You’re so creative and so fucking smart. Everything about you makes me want you.’

I felt my mouth gape open.

‘And I’ve never told a lassie how I feel before, so don’t think I’m a pure bell end, but I had to tell you.’

The room was silent for a few seconds. Andy looked tense, waiting on my reaction. ‘I … eh … I don’t know what to say!’ I said. ‘I’m flattered, and of course, the attraction is one hundred per cent mutual. I’m just not sure I’m the type of girl guys want to have a serious relationship with though.’

When I said it, my belly dropped, realising how sad it sounded. But deep down, that’s what I honestly believed.

‘What? Of course, you are, Zara!’ he said, shaking his head in disbelief.

‘And what about Jennifer and Ty?’ I added.

Andy looked confused, letting out a small giggle, ‘What about them? Me and Jen are over. I only see her when she drops off Tyson. We share custody of the dog since the split, and I have him at weekends.’

Abruptly Tom broke out from the staff room, and both Andy and I jumped back.

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