“I don’t know either. Seems we’re in the same boat. Would you like to be vague and directionless with me?”
“You surely aren’t serious. After everything…”
“I am serious. I underestimated you, and I regret it. You are a good businesswoman, and you have a streak of self-preservation I didn’t reckon on. You are intelligent, attractive and…well, we were compatible on that particular level, weren’t we? Hmm?”
“This…isn’t a trap?”
“Only inasmuch as I intend to get you into my wicked clutches. For purposes that will benefit you. I hope. We can start a new business, somewhere abroad. I have money in offshore accounts—how does Monaco grab you?”
“Why? Why would you want me with you?”
“We could have a wonderful life together. Money, luxury, sex, companionship. I was close to death for a while, and it has made me value company in my declining years, especially feminine company.”
“Feminine company. And money and sex. What about love, Charles?”
“Oh, you women,” he muttered. “Don’t be silly, Michelle. This is the offer of a lifetime. Just say yes and let’s go.”
Michelle reached out for one of his hands. Elegant, long-fingered, perfectly cold and smooth, it was like a waxwork hand.
“Charles, I’m sorry, but the answer’s no,” she said after a pause. “I know you think you’re honouring me and I should feel privileged. But you should go and honour some other poor cow. I don’t feel privileged. I feel I can do better. I will do better, even if I’m alone for the rest of my life. But I wish you all the best, and I hope you break the bank in Monte Carlo. Goodbye.”
He slipped his hand from hers and for one second, his expression of hurt bewilderment made her want to change her mind, kiss him, give him comfort.
“Goodbye,” he said with stiff courtesy. “And good luck.”
He returned to the car parked alone at the side of the grassy verge. Michelle watched him climb in, start the engine and drive off. Then she walked to the edge of the viewpoint and looked out, letting the light breeze tangle her hair and her thoughts.
Back to town. Go to Cutting Crew and book a retouch of my highlights. Then go to the estate agent and put in an offer for the Fairhaven.
She stretched out her arms, opened her mouth and breathed it in, tasted it, along with the salt and the seaweed. Freedom at last.