Reunited with Her Italian Ex Read Free

media magnate had propositioned her, certain that a mere freelance journalist would never refuse him. When she did refuse he couldn’t believe it, persisting until she was forced to slap his face and bring her successful career to a sudden end.
    After that, her life had been on a downward spiral. Her income had collapsed. Now she could barely afford the small rent she paid on the room she rented from Helen.
    The time had come for firm action. And if that meant leaping into the unknown, she would do it. The unknown had its attractions, and suddenly she was ready for anything.
    She exchanged brisk emails with Giorgio, the publicity manager. He informed her that she would be staying at the Dimitri Hotel and a driver would meet her at the airport. Two days later she embarked on the journey that might lead to a triumphant new life, or a disaster. Either way, she was venturing into the unknown.
    During the flight to Verona she kept her mind firmly concentrated on work.
Romeo and Juliet
was a story that had long touched the world: two young people who fell in love despite the enmity of their families. In the end, they chose to die rather than live without each other.
    Legend said that Shakespeare’s play was based on real events. The lovers had really lived and died. It would be her job to immerse herself in the story and entice the world to join her.
    The driver was at the airport, holding up a placard bearing the words ‘Dimitri Hotel’. He greeted her with relief, and ushered her into the car for the three-mile journey to Verona.
    â€˜The hotel is in the centre of town,’ he said. ‘Right next to the river.’
    Verona was an ancient, beautiful city. Delighted, she gazed out of the window, enchanted by the hints of another, mysterious age. At last they drew up outside a large elaborate building.
    â€˜Here we are. Dimitri Hotel,’ the driver said.
    As she entered the elegant lobby, a man came forward. He was in his sixties, heavily built, with a plump, smiling face. He greeted her in English.
    â€˜The agency told me there had been a change of plan,’ he said. ‘Apparently the original candidate couldn’t make it, but they say you have excellent credentials.’
    â€˜Thank you. I’m an experienced journalist. I hope I can live up to your expectations.’
    â€˜I’m sure you will. I’m very glad you’re here. I promised the President the lady would be here for him tonight and it’s never good to disappoint him.’
    He gave a comical shudder which made Natasha ask, ‘Is he a difficult man? Scary?’
    â€˜Sometimes. Mostly he’s very determined. People don’t cross him if they can help it. He only bought this hotel just under two years ago and set about changing everything practically the first day. There’s been a massive redecoration, and the staff has been reorganised to suit him. Everything has to be done his way. Nobody argues.’
    â€˜You called him the President.’
    â€˜President of the
Comunità.
It was his idea that a group of hotel owners of Verona, the
Comunità
, should all work together. They thought it would be an easy-going organisation but he said it needed leadership. The others just did as he suggested and named him President.
    â€˜A while back one of the other owners thought of challenging him for the top job, but he was “persuaded” not to. Nobody knows how, but neither was anyone surprised.
    â€˜When he gives his orders we jump to attention, especially me, because he could fire me any time he likes. I’m only telling you so that you’ll take care not to offend him.
    â€˜We’ll dine with him tonight and tomorrow you will meet all the
Comunità
members. They’re looking forward to having you spread the word about our lovely city.’
    â€˜But isn’t the word already out? Surely
Romeo and Juliet
is the most famous love story in the world?’
    â€˜True, but we