Page 83 of The Grand Duel

There’s this case. A really important case that’s time-sensitive and needs my eyes on. My problem? My eyes are on her.

Lissie Elton.

“Seven. If the alarm isn’t set, you can call me, and I’ll be back here to kick him out.”

Edna’s face warms as she smiles down at the brunette I’m doing my best to ignore. “I believe you’ll do it too.” She chuckles.

“I will. Now this conference. What would I need to do to set this up?”

I snigger, seemingly forgotten in the room.

“Everything okay, Charles?” Lissie asks, turning.

We lock eyes, a challenge already in hers. “What conference?”

She grins as if I’ve walked right into her perfectly laid trap.

Truth be told, I’d snare myself if it meant she’d smile at me like that again.

“The one you told Ed to decline. Italy.”

“For good reason.”

“Give me one, and I’ll cancel your appointment with the tailor this afternoon.”

I sit back in my chair as I level her with a stare. “Firstly, I’m not going anywhere this afternoon.”

“Respectfully, you’re wrong.” She holds up my diary.

I run my tongue over my top lip. “Secondly, the event is overpriced and inconvenient. I have responsibilities?—”

“I’ve got the dogs,” Edna tells me. “Twisted Phil’s arm into letting them stay with us for the night.”

I narrow my eyes at her. “The dogs are not my only responsibilities.”

“Okay.” Lissie holds up her hands, walking to my desk and sitting in the chair opposite. “I did think about this. Now, I know you normally spend your evenings here, and I considered the fact you might’ve made plans since you agreed to be out of here by seven.” She looks at me pointedly.

“No, I haven’t got any plans. But I need to be around. Just in case.”

“Charles,” Edna tries.

I can tell Lissie wants to ask why.

Who could possibly need me?

“The flight’s short. You could be home in two and a half hours.” Her eyes catch and hold on mine. “I booked you a suite. It’s beautiful—overlooking the sea with a private panoramic terrace, perfect for a short break.”

“I book holidays throughout the year when I want a break, Lissie. Not on a random Monday.”

She gives me a defeated but professional smile, then nods.

I look past her at Edna, her face morphing into a hard glare.

“It’s not a holiday,” Lissie defends. “You’d be there one night, and with the panel you’ve been asked to attend, it would be half a day of work, tops. You’ll be back in the office by midday Thursday.”

I stare at her, knowing it’s possible but not knowing if it’s fair on Edna and her to leave mid-week.

I saw the invite when Edna first sent it over to me, and truth be told, it’s something I’d like to attend.