Once a Playboy…. Kate Hardy

was touched that he’d recognised she needed a clear head for the rest of her shift and wouldn’t want to drink wine. ‘Thank you. That’s lovely.’

      ‘To the beginnings of a new friendship,’ he said, lifting his glass.

      ‘I’ll drink to that. Just friends,’ she felt compelled to add.

      ‘Good friends,’ he said with a smile.

      The sandwiches—at least, she thought they were sandwiches—were all wrapped neatly in greaseproof paper. He’d definitely gone to a posh deli, Serena thought. ‘What’s in the packets?’

      ‘I was hoping you’d ask that.’ His eyes crinkled at the corners. ‘Close your eyes.’

      ‘Why?’

      ‘So you can take a bite and guess.’

      Oh, help. This was a dangerous game. And hadn’t they just agreed to be friends? This was more like the kind of game lovers played.

      Clearly her worries showed on her face, because he said softly, ‘Relax. This is going to be fun.’

      What could she do but go along with him and close her eyes?

      The bread was gorgeous, soft and full of grains and seeds. There was a distinct peppery taste, mingled with something sweet with a hint of fieriness, and something juicy.

      ‘So what do you think?’ he asked.

      ‘Rocket, prawns and sweet chilli sauce?’ she guessed.

      ‘Excellent. You’ve just earned your first sandwich. You can open your eyes now.’

      A neatly cut triangle—with a bite taken from the apex—sat on the plate in front of her.