Free Sally’s Honeymoon: Book 4 Of A Contemporary Romance Short Story Series by A.J. Temple

Century to prevent its use by the Saracens! The castle you see before you now was actually built by the Normans in the 12 th Century, on the foundations of the old one.”
    “Isn’t that fantastic.” Said Robert impressed. “So it is still built on the ‘magic egg’ then!”
    The waiter laughed. “Yes indeed, though I’d imagine it would have been well scrambled by then!”
    He was still chuckling as he left them to bask in the romance of the setting, enjoying Good food, and building memories that would stay with them forever.
    When they had finished their pizza, they immediately set off to explore the ancient castle; Robert being particularly keen as this was his more of his idea of a great building, rather than the ornate stonework of Gaudi.
    “Honestly Sally, if ever I could afford it, I would love to stay in an old Castle! The thought of all the history that has gone before you, I think is just mind-boggling!”
    The day, they both agreed, had been a great success as they took a leisurely stroll back to the ship; admiring the view of the Bay of Naples, and dreaming of the possibilities of owning an apartment someday, overlooking the famous waterfront.
    That evening they enjoyed their meal, Sally much more relaxed and at ease without the worry over Melanie – whom they had never seen since the recent turbulent events – and headed down to see the Ice Show . They both thought that this was a marvel, that a ship could have a full size ice rink on board, seemed to defy all logic.
    The show itself was performed by American, Russian and Canadian professional ice skaters; who they both agreed gave an excellent performance.
    “It’s definitely one of the highlights of the cruise for me!” Sally said, as she headed up the stairs to the cocktail bar.
    Robert nodded , commenting that he wished he had learned to skate when he was younger. “Oh never mind old man!” Sally poked him in the ribs. “Why don’t you just ‘Skate’ over to the bar and get the drinks eh!”
    “Oh yes…very funny dear – Not!” He dodged a weak blow from Sally and wandered over to get the drinks as commanded.
    ******

Chapter 13
    Stefan was pleased, when he heard that the problems with Robert and sally had been sorted out. The fact was that although his own life was complicated, and his morals left a lot to be desired; he did in fact have a strong romantic streak in him. This meant that although he could not bring himself to settle down with one woman for the rest of his life; he liked to think that it was at least possible for others. He had an idealistic dream of sharing his life with his ‘soul mate,’ and being faithful to her forever; but up until now it had always been a dream that eluded him.
    “If only circumstances were different.” He mused to himself; knowing deep inside that he was just making excuses for his actions.
    He loved the lifestyle of the rich and famous, that was his first problem. The next problem was that he did not have any wealth of his own, and when he did acquire it through others; he soon lost it again – usually over the roulette table, or entertaining expensive women.
    He was standing at the bar mulling over his next move with Shirley, when Robert tapped him on the shoulder.
    “Ah Robert my friend. Is all well with you?”
    “It is now Stefan; thanks in part at least to your intervention!”
    “Think nothing of it Robert; I knew that woman would be trouble for you, right from the first night.”
    “How right you were Stefan – if only I had been so astute!”
    “Ha, do not beat yourself up my friend. I have had my share of trouble with such women, believe me! I recognise the signs only because of painful experience.”
    “Thanks Stefan. I have to admit though I was tempted – God help me!” Robert said, with guilt written all over his face.
    “Ha ha, who wouldn’t be - She has the body of a goddess! Temptation is not a sin my friend; falling to temptation; this is what brings down the