Chapter 48

I knocked on the door and smiled in readiness. The man who opened the door was an impressive sight, over six feet tall and slim. I assumed this was was Giles, although I guessed that it was a false name, like mine. He was, I reckoned, to be in his forties, quite handsome, deeply tanned, with dark eyes, and dark hair greying at the temples. All in all, rather distinguished in appearance.

He held out his hand as he ushered me inside.

‘Hello, I’m Giles, and I’m hoping you are Carlo.’ I shook his hand, it was soft but with a firm grip.

‘Yes, pleased to meet you Giles.’ I had a good look at him as he, in turn, looked me up and down.

‘Your pictures don’t do you justice Carlo, you are really very cute.’ ‘Thank you, Giles, it’s nice of you to say so.’ It was then that I noticed the pale line on his wedding ring finger. So he was, or had been married, an even greater need for discretion. He was clearly prepared for the occasion, as all he appeared to have on was a rather expensive looking white silk dressing gown.

He walked over to the desk and picked up four, twenty pound notes.

‘I believe this is correct.’ He handed me the money.

‘Thank you yes, just right.’ ‘Did you bring the...?’ He trailed off as if the mere mention of the word betrayed his urgent desire.

‘Condoms, yes right here.’ I delved in to my pocket and held out one for him to take, and once again I was struck by his deep tan. His skin was only a shade or two lighter than mine. There was another pale band where a wristwatch had been. This was no fake salon or spray on tan, this was the real thing. Caribbean maybe, or Mediterranean perhaps.