Sexy Berkeley (1) by Dani Lovell Read Free Book Online

the main house to retire for the evening, Tilly and I sat out on the pool-house deck, each with a throw from the sofas around us, drinking red wine and staring at the wonderful, clear night sky. We toasted California with one more glass of wine before heading in for a long, uninterrupted, very dreamy sleep.
     
     
     

CHAPTER FOUR
    SUNDAY 16TH SEPTEMBER
     
    I wake to the sounds of Tilly filling the kettle in the kitchen. Although the curtains are still closed, the french doors are open, sending a refreshing breeze through the room. My bottom is, thankfully, not making an appearance this morning. I stretch and revel in the glory of waking up in this heavenly place.
    "Morning," I call into the kitchen from under my cosy duvet.
    "Oh you're up! How did you sleep?" Tilly walks to the doorway and pokes her head out.
    " Amazingly , thank you. How about you?"
    "Oh me too, I always do here. It's times like this that I wish I lived here, dark circles would be a thing of the past."
    "Oh wow, that would be amazing. I know Clare and I would miss you like mad, but you could easily come and live over here, Til."
    "Yeah, I've thought about it, but I don't think I could. I'd miss everything at home too much and there's all the Visa stuff to think about."
    "I suppose, but it would be fabulous."
    ~~~~~~~
    At eleven thirty, Gemma drops us by a fabulous looking apartment complex opposite The Grove, on her way to a 'Mummy/toddler' class, with Jack. The sun is shining and it's a beautifully hot day. I'm glad I wore my short, white, shirt dress, it's perfect. The tan ankle boots will probably be a little warm, in hindsight, but never mind, they look good.
    We look around a couple of shops, before our bellies start to rumble. Tilly told me about a place she goes to with Gemma for noodles in the Farmer's Market, a few minutes away, so we decide to go there and head back to the shops afterwards. The market is very busy, but it's so vibrant and energetic, and the aromas are delectable. Tilly points to the noodle place and we approach the queue.
    The line inches forward slowly and I contemplate the options on the menu plaque, it all looks mouthwatering. Just as I'm about to ask Tilly what dish she recommends, a familiar, velvety voice takes me by complete surprise. "Well, Miss Hart, what a wonderful surprise."
    I turn so quickly, I'm surprised I don't do damage to my neck.
    Jesus Christ, he's here, hot-pants himself. The very man who has dominated my dreams for the past two nights, stands before me looking... exquisite. I'm stunned into silence for a few moments while I gawk at this hot slice of heaven.
    "Oh my god..." I just about manage, "Sexy Berkeley..."
    His smile is magnificent as he raises his eyebrows. Tilly bursts out laughing and only then do I realise what I've called him. "Oh, um, I mean, Daniel!" I can't help but giggle, I'm not used to being so dumb-struck by a man's presence.
    He puts his hand on the small of my back and kisses my cheek. The skin on skin contact is electric, I feel the tingle immediately and close my eyes to inhale his divine scent, melting into him. He draws away slowly and offers a cheek to Tilly. She presses her cheek against his and immediately pushes in front of me to order for the both of us. I wouldn't care if she ordered me a plate of dead rats right now, Daniel Berkeley is in front of me, looking hot to trot in navy Ralph Lauren shorts and a brilliant-white polo shirt. His face is even more beautiful than I remember. His collar is standing up against his neck in the sexiest way.
    "Bea, how are you? It's so great to see you. How unexpected!"
    "I'm very well, thank you. A little shocked to see you, as I'm sure you can tell! How are you?"
    "I'm good, all the better for seeing you." He smiles a shy and utterly gorgeous smile as he slides his hands in his pockets and rocks back on his heels. Tilly arrives at our sides with two plates of... something - who cares - I'm far too interested in Sexy over here.
    "Oh, please