“Hallooo! Is anyone there?” The high-pitched female voice purred from outside.
Matteo recognized it immediately. What was Rosalie doing here? He hid the map underneath a mass of other documents. Hadn’t she gotten his message by now? This woman was definitely no quitter.
He went to the door. “Hi there, Rosalie. How may I help you today?”
Rosalie batted her curvy lashes and threw back her head. “Oh, Mattie dear, I just had some business in the neighborhood with my colleagues.” She pointed at two giggling women standing a few meters away. “You remember Clara and Jenny, don’t you?”
Matteo nodded. Jenny was the one who thought Canada belonged to the US. “So you just happened to be around and thought you’d say hello, is that it? Then, hello.”
Rosalie smoothed her long black hair with one hand and, with the other, touched Matteo’s arm. “Don’t be rude, Mattie. I just wanted to see what you’re up to.”
Matteo peered down at Rosalie’s pink fingers standing out in contrast to his tanned arm. Her palm was warm and not unpleasant, but it didn’t send any particular sensation to his skin. Nothing like Eleni’s touch. Oh fudge, why did his mind bring up such inappropriate ideas?
He raised his head. “Sorry, I didn’t mean to be rude. I’m just busy. Hugo’s still out, and I have to get some papers in order before I can head out for a night dive.”
“A night dive?” Rosalie’s eyes widened. “No, you can’t go tonight.”
“And why is that?”
Rosalie whacked him gently on the chest. “Did you forget? We’re doing a season-opening staff party at the Bliss. James already gave his blessing, and I even managed to convince Tariq to give us lots of free booze.” She twirled a streak of hair around her index finger. “It will be quite fun. You mustn’t miss it.”
Matteo had forgotten all about the party. But he had no intention of going, anyways. Drinking with Bradley and Nathan didn’t sound bad, but he could do that any Sunday night when his buddies were off.
“I just got back from the airport. I haven’t had time to do my work yet. With season opening around the corner, I need to ensure the dive sites are all appropriate.”
Rosalie leaned forward, her prominent breasts pressing into Matteo’s arm. “Ah, work, work, work. Always. You need fun, Mattie. I can give you that.” She furrowed her brows. “What were you doing at the airport? Expecting a special visitor? Not your girlfriend, I hope?”
Matteo stifled a laugh. Rosalie never hesitated to show when she was interested.
He forced himself not to dip his gaze to her cleavage. “I picked up a new team member for you.”
Rosalie touched her forehead with her index finger. “For us? Ah, yes, the ballet dancer from Boston.”
So Eleni was a ballet dancer, not just a regular dance teacher for kids. That explained a lot. Her lean but muscular figure, gracious but proud posture, and her tight bun. “Yes, that’s the one. Her name is Eleni.”
Rosalie waved her hand. “Yes, whatever. So, are you coming tonight or not? I could make it an unforgettable party for you.” She winked and flashed a seductive smile.
Matteo watched her full lips part. Why was he so resistant to her? Rosalie was a bombshell, by any definition. Probably a man eater, too, but who cared. She might help him blow off some steam. Plus she was offering herself on a silver plate.
“I don’t know, Rosalie.”
“I told you, call me Rosie, please.”
Matteo shifted his weight. No, it wouldn’t make sense. Never poop where you eat. His dad was full of pearls of wisdom. This one he wouldn’t forget. No woman was worth jeopardizing his position here.
Luke believed in him. They had to get their business going before next summer. For that, Matteo needed to focus on the task at hand. Not on women. There would be the time for that once they managed to set everything up.
“Yes, Rosie, okay. I’ll try my best, but I can’t promise anything. Even if I don’t go out tonight, I’ll need to sail to the Emperor’s Rock tomorrow.”
“Wow, I’d love to see the Emperor’s Rock someday,” Rosalie purred. “I heard it offers the best view of the resort and the surrounding mountains.”
Matteo recalled the contrast of the white sand, the lush greenery, and the night-blue waters. “Yeah, it’s quite impressive.”
“You could take me on a private tour one day.”
“Sure, someday maybe.”
In the distance, a loud bark sounded.
Fluff and Hugo. Matteo’s shoulders slumped. Thank heavens, he was saved. Hugo was the best excuse to terminate this conversation.
His assistant’s round figure, with the tiny fox terrier running at his side, appeared on the horizon. Fluff raced to Matteo. Clara and Jenny stepped aside to let the dog pass.
It ran up to Matteo and jumped around in excitement. Rosalie let go of Matteo’s arm and backed up a couple of steps.
She pulled her elbows high and folded her arms around her chest. “What a cute doggie.” Her voice was flat. “I’ve gotta get going now. Don’t forget about tonight.”
“What’s happening tonight?” Hugo said as he reached them. Sweat pearls covered his chest and he wiped them away with his hand.
Rosalie didn’t answer as she sashayed over to her friends. They started to walk back to the main building.
Hugo turned to Matteo. “What did I miss?”
“Nothing important. Tonight is the opening party. There will be free booze and clueless company. It’s just right for you.” Matteo winked at him.
A wide grin spread across Hugo’s face. “You betcha. My place is there.”
“Have fun then.”
“What, aren’t you coming? We never get a chance to have a proper party here. I’d love to inspect the fresh offering of cheerleaders.” Hugo laughed at his own joke. “By the way, did you get the new one from the airport?”
“Uhm-mmh. Yeah,” Matteo murmured.
Eleni. The fresh offering Hugo referred to. She was also going to be at the party. Matteo’s heart accelerated. Maybe he’d drop in after all. It couldn’t hurt to strengthen some social bonds before the season started. One never knew when relationships could come in handy.
He was certainly not going there just to see Eleni. They probably wouldn’t even bump into each other, among all the people.
He glanced at his watch. The night dive and the Purple Rain were out for today, but he still had time for a small trip to the Black Rock.
“Hugo, I’m going for a dip. Please get the papers in order. It looks like a tornado hit our office. When I’m back, we can take a short peek at that famous party.”
Hugo gave him a thumbs up. “Sure, boss. Whatever you say.”
Matteo went in and packed up his goggles and a towel. He walked out of the diving center toward the ocean.
Chapter 5
Eleni yawned into her palm. Her eyes scanned the loud terrace. Where was Cath anyways? She said she’d be back in a minute.
Her eyes drifted to the dance floor. A few women wiggled around with provocative moves and no clear sense of rhythm. Did they think they were actually dancing? Eleni followed their gazes. Oh, that explained it. They were just flirting with the men at the bar.
Why did they need to use dancing as an excuse? Brainless cheerleaders. Eleni stifled a snort as she thought about Matteo’s words. She hated to admit it, but she was beginning to understand what he’d meant.
She shook her head. No, this wasn’t the right attitude Cath had talked about. She shouldn’t be this negative. This was only her first day. Those women were probably also kind and smart. She would get along with them at some point. She just needed time to adjust and make friends. She rubbed her neck with both hands.
“I see someone is in urgent need of a drink.” Cath threw herself on the chair beside Eleni and handed her a pink cocktail. “Sorry it took so long, but believe me, the wait will be worth it. The drink is courtesy of Bradley. Bar should be self-service tonight, but I told him you were new, so he wanted
to give you a special welcome.”
“Thanks.” Eleni took the glass and drank a sip.
Ah, sizzling, sweet, and sour at the same time. Pretty good, indeed.
“Who’s Bradley?”
“He’s the head barman of the Bliss. Also a very funny lad. I like him a lot.”
Eleni drank some more, and a warm sensation diffused into her legs. She had missed dinner because of the administrative paperwork. A cocktail on an empty stomach wasn’t maybe the best idea, but it helped take the edge off the first day’s excitement.
“I see my creation is well appreciated.”
A warm baritone made Eleni jerk back.
Cath smiled at the bulky man. “Bradley, I was just talking about you.”
Bradley winked and his freckles danced around his eyes. “Just good things, I hope.”
Cath nodded. “I only praised your skills.”
He pointed to their table. “You mind if my pals and I join you?”
Cath’s face turned crimson.
Eleni’s eyes darted around. Who were these pals? Maybe the famous Nathan was on his way?
Two men approached their table. One of them fit the description of Cath’s crush. But it was the other tall, muscular figure to whom Eleni’s eyes were drawn.
She straightened her back and smoothed down her dress. Why was she feeling giddy suddenly? She shouldn’t have gulped down her cocktail so fast. That, and seeing Matteo in his unbuttoned, white shirt was making her heart too jumpy.
Matteo’s lips drew into a smile. “Cath, Eleni, nice to see you here.”
He looked more relaxed than he had that morning. His slightly wet hair glistened in the flashing disco lights, as if he had just come from the shower.
Eleni waved at them. “Hi there.”
Hi there? Why did it sound so ridiculous coming out of her mouth? She should have said something cooler or wittier.
Nathan introduced himself to Eleni and sat down beside Cath. The two started to chat about the horrible soundtrack Tariq had put together for the evening. Matteo and Bradley settled on the two chairs in front of Eleni.
Bradley took out a cigar and lit it. He raised his eyebrows while looking at Eleni. “Do you mind?”
Eleni shook her head. She hated the smoke, but she didn’t feel like starting out on the wrong foot with Bradley. The evening breeze would carry away the smell anyways.
“Did you settle in all right?” Matteo asked.
Eleni blinked at him. Why did this guy have to have such extraordinary eyes? Her chest vibrated as if a bunch of tiny explosives were released in it.
She crossed her legs and answered, “Yes, all unpacked, thanks to my roomie here.” She indicated Cath who was still taken by her chat with Nathan.
Matteo nodded. “I see. Then I assume you’re all caught up on the inside scoop of the island’s daily life. Cath is quite the talker.”
Cath snapped her head toward him. “Don’t think I didn’t hear you, Matt.” She stuck out her tongue and he grinned.
Eleni’s stomach tightened. Why did their teasing exchange disturb her?
Nathan brushed his sandy-colored bangs to the side and pulled his face in a menacing frown. “Matt, don’t you dare to molest my cutie bug here. She’s under my protection.”
Cath’s eyes lit up as if she’d just received her Christmas present. A pang of guilt shot through Eleni. She was such a fool. Cath didn’t like Matteo, she liked Nathan. She knew it. What was wrong with her? Why did she even care who might like Matteo? It must be the cocktail clouding her head.
Eleni glanced sideways at Matteo. Oh, no. How long had he been watching her like this? Heat rushed to her cheeks. Words, yes, words would be great now. Ask him something. Anything.
“Did you manage to get to your appointment after you dropped me off?”
Matteo’s eyes widened. “My appointment?”
“Oh, sorry. I thought you had one. Isn’t that why you were rushing me and checking the time constantly?”
A shadow of emotion passed Matteo’s face. It came and went so quickly, Eleni didn’t have time to decipher it.
He shook his head. “No, I am the one who should be sorry. I was a bit rude this morning. I’m under stress to prepare everything for the season. I need to check each diving site before we open up. The Russian millionaires always think they know everything best, but the deep water around the island is quite a challenge, even for experienced swimmers. I can’t take risks when I take them out with me.”
Eleni shuddered, and her hands grew cold. She knew the dangers of the deep waters better than anyone. She thought of the broken picture frame. No, she mustn’t go there now.
She squared her shoulders and plastered on a smile she hoped looked serene. “Well, then I’ll make sure to only dip my toes.”
“You aren’t a swimmer?” Matteo asked.
Eleni shrugged. “I can swim, but I prefer doing it in the pool.”
Matteo’s eyebrows were so high they almost touched his hairline. Of course, it would be unimaginable to someone who spent half of his life under water.
Bradley leaned forward. “Maybe my boy here can give you some private training. He’s as good as a diver can get.”
Eleni scratched her chin. “Ah, really?”
Matteo’s eyes flicked to his friend then back to her. “I’m good. But Brad loves to exaggerate. It makes him, as my pal, even more interesting.”
Bradley patted Matteo’s shoulder. “Yes, even more so once the Pearl is discovered.”
Matteo’s jaw clenched and his arm muscles contracted. “I told you, I prefer not to discuss it.”
Bradley shot him an apologetic look. “Sorry, mate. My bad.”
Eleni bit her inner lip. Was it Bradley’s comment about private training that made Matteo uncomfortable? If so, it wasn’t a great compliment. And what pearl where they talking about?
Before she could ask, a ravishing brunette arrived at their table and leaned in close to Matteo’s face. “Mattie, you came.” Her voice was husky, and with one hand, she grabbed Matteo’s arm.
He flinched and she withdrew her hand but didn’t move back.
“Yes, Rosalie. In the end, I postponed the night dive for another day.”
Oh, so this was the famous Rosalie Cath had been gossiping about. Eleni studied Rosalie’s curves, perfectly highlighted in her purple dress. She was very beautiful, no question about that. But why did she have to stand so close to Matteo? Did they arrange to meet here?
Rosalie flashed a smile at Matteo. “I knew you couldn’t resist my company.”
Cath snorted, and Eleni had to stifle a giggle. She didn’t know Cath well yet, but it was clear her roomie wore her heart on her sleeve.
Rosalie pursed her lips. “What’s your problem, Catherina? Didn’t you get enough weight lifting done today?”
Her eyes moved to Cath’s muscular forearms, and she gave a disdainful hiss.
Cath narrowed her eyes. “At least I do something healthy for my body instead of just squeezing it into shaping underwear.”
Rosalie’s mouth popped open and her gaze grew dark, but she didn’t answer. Instead, she pulled up a chair and sat down beside Matteo, so close her thigh pressed against his leg.
Cath wasn’t kidding when she said the two of them were at some kind of war.
Eleni shot a side-glance at her friend. Cath was observing her own arm, her face still flushed. Eleni’s stomach tightened. She hated to see the people she liked get hurt.
Rosalie’s voice tore her away from her thoughts. “You’re Eleni, right?”
“Yes, I am. It’s nice to meet you, Rosalie.”
Rosalie smiled, but it didn’t reach her eyes. “You can call me Rosie. I only allow my friends to call me that.” Her eyes darted to Cath then returned to Eleni. “Did you hear that I’ll be your direct boss?”
She caressed her neck with the hand nearest to Matteo.
Eleni gasped. “My boss? Nope, I wasn’t briefed about that yet. I thought I be
longed to Tariq’s team like all the other animators.”
Great, having a man magnet as her superior wasn’t going to make Eleni’s life easy. Women focused on getting attention no matter what weren’t the nicest to their fellow females. A bitter taste invaded Eleni’s mouth, as Judith and Connor kissing flashed into her mind.
Matteo’s eyebrows drew together. “What are you talking about, Rosalie? There’s no other middle manager. Just Tariq. James would never allow it.”
Rosalie twisted her upper body toward Matteo. “Seems like you don’t know everything that goes down in here. Do you?” She leaned closer to him and lowered her voice. “Wanna know another secret that would interest you a lot? It’s directly connected to your obsession about that Pearl.”
Matteo worked his jaw. “Who told you about that?”
Bradley lowered his chin to his chest. “I might have.”
What was it about this pearl? It must be something important if Matteo was so concerned about it. But why keep it secret?
Eleni studied Matteo’s face. It was contracted in a frown, which made his cheekbones appear even more sculpted. And his eyes. Their color became like the angry ocean. Eleni’s heart stuttered. A woman could lose herself in the angry ocean.
Rosalie giggled. “I see I got your attention. The question is, what would you give to know what I know?”
Matteo rubbed his neck. “Why don’t we simplify it and you tell me what you want in return?”
Cath clicked her tongue. “Matt, we can all tell you what Rosalie wants from you. I wonder if she’s desperate enough to blackmail it out of you in front of us.”
Ouch, what a barb. Cath sure wanted to pay Rosalie back for her previous misbehavior.
Rosalie shot a dirty look at Cath then turned back to Matteo. “Despite what Miss Bodybuilder here is suggesting, I’ll just ask you to lighten this party up.”
Matteo tilted his head. “How am I supposed to do that?”
Rosalie lowered her eyelids a bit and blinked at him from under her lashes. “See the dance floor? It’s so sad. Only we girls are dancing. Why don’t you come and dance with the girl of your choosing?”
During the last words, she thrust her chest out slightly. There could be no doubt whom she proposed as a dance partner.
Loving The Boss (Gems 0f Love Book 1) Page 3
