Free The Summer Deal by Aleka Nakis

nap before dinner. I promise not to let you sleep too long. You can adjust with a good night’s sleep tonight.”
    He was very relaxed, and she found herself enjoying this side of her employer more than usual.
    “Go on, you’re sleeping in the room on the right. I’ll knock on your door in an hour or so.”
    *****
    She opened her eyes and stared at the darkness outside her window. The sun had set, and the clock on the nightstand showed ten-thirty. She had slept for hours.
    Sammy turned on the bedside lamp. Stone walls kept the room cool, while the dark beams across the ceiling added an image of warmth. The sturdy wooden four-poster bed was an antique, and the wardrobe was a showcase of workmanship with its intricate carvings.
    The slate floor was cold on her feet, and she quickly put on a pair of slippers provided by the resort. Wrapping herself in a fluffy robe, she walked to the door adjoining the living room and opened it. Demo was sitting on the couch watching the NBA finals.
    “Basketball?” she asked.
    “The wonders of satellite.” He patted the couch. “Come join me. It’s the third quarter of game four. You rooting for anyone?”
    “Yeah, I’m a big fan. With my height, I was the starting center in high school.” She chuckled, imagining waving her arms and chasing the ball down the court. “I’m going to shower, and if they’re not done by the time I’m dressed, I’ll root for the white team.”
    “A real fan.” He nodded his head for emphasis. “I’ll be right here waiting.”
    Sammy was about to close her door, when the main entrance opened and a stunning woman walked in. Long raven hair flowed off her bare shoulders and rested on her back. A halter style red mini-dress outlined her shapely, toned physique, and her endless legs stood in expensive designer sandals.
    Zoë Markos.
    “Demo, I brought you some bougatsa .” The Greek beauty handed him a box with a gold ribbon. “It’s from your favorite shop.”
    “Thank you, koukla mou .” He jumped off the couch, took the package, and kissed her cheek. Opening the box, and releasing an aroma of the sweet cheese pastry mixed with cinnamon, he walked towards Sammy. “Have you met Zoë Markos?”
    “No. Pleased to meet you, Miss Markos. I’m—”
    “Sammy, I know.” The gorgeous woman smiled sweetly. “How was your trip?”
    “Good.” Taken aback by Zoë’s friendliness, she swallowed hard, helpless to halt her embarrassment. “And how was your trip?”
    “Don’t ask. I’m scared to fly. But I love it here, so I’d never complain about the trip—other than the need to take a plane to get here.” Zoë laughed, the sensual sound shaking Samantha’s confidence. “Oh, I almost forgot. Your suitcases arrived yesterday, but I didn’t know if you wanted the staff to unpack for you. I requested they leave them by the wardrobe in your room.”
    “Yes, I saw that. Thank you. It was very thoughtful of you.” Sammy nodded and forced a smile. No wonder Demo liked spending time with this woman. Not only was she good-looking, Zoë Markos was so…so…nice.
    “Demo said you’re joining us for dinner. I hope you’re not very hungry, he won’t go anywhere before the game is over.”
    “Actually, I’m begging out of dinner. I feel tired.” She met Demo’s quizzical gaze, and wet her lips with a nervous flickering of her tongue. “It must be the time difference. I think I’ll go to bed early tonight. It was a pleasure meeting you Miss Markos, and goodnight Mr. Lakis.”
    Samantha hurriedly closed the door, not allowing any further conversation. She wasn’t going to be a third wheel. And she needed time to get her feelings under control.
    Demo had not asked her to come to Greece for pleasure. She arrived in the ancient country to do her job. She would spend business hours with him, and after hours, she would not impose on his time or politeness. She would not read anymore into their relationship than she knew it was. No brooding; she