Only You - Lord of the Manor book 1

Chapter 38

I drive to Lusso in a stupid fashion, overtaking, banging my car horn impatiently and running a few red lights. When I pull up at the docks, I see Harry's car parked on an angle, spanning two of his allocated spaces. I abandon my Mini on the road, let myself in the pedestrian gate – thanking all that's holy I remember the code – and rush into the foyer, finding Clive at the concierge desk. He's looking more cheerful than usual.

'Louis! I've finally got the hang of all this ruddy equipment.' he declares delightedly.

I brace myself on the high, marble counter to catch my breath. 'Great, Clive. I told you it would come.'

'Are you okay?'

'I'm fine. I'm just going up to Harry.'

The phone on the desk starts ringing, and Clive holds his finger up in a signal for me to excuse him for a second. 'Mr Holland? Yes Sir, of course, Sir.' He hangs up, scribbling a few notes on his pad. 'Sorry about that.'

'That's okay. I'll make my way up.'

'Ah, Louis, Mr Styles hasn't notified me of your visit.' He scans his screen.

I gape at him. Is he having me on? He's seen Harry carry me in and out of this place on numerous occasions. What's he playing at? I smile sweetly. 'How are you finding the job, Clive?'

He immediately becomes willing and animated. 'Well, I'm basically a personal assistant to thirteen filthy rich residents, but I love it. You should hear some of the requests I get. Yesterday, Mr Daniels asked me to organise a chopper ride over the city for his daughter and three friends and...' He leans over the counter, lowering his voice. 'Mr Gomez up on fifth, he has a different woman every day of the week. And Mr Holland seems to have a thing for the Thai birds. But keep that to yourself. It's all confidential.' He winks, and I wonder what Harry has had him do or arrange. Organise for his smashed car window to be fixed would be a start.

'Wow, it sounds very interesting. I'm glad you're enjoying it, Clive.' I broaden my smile at him. 'Do you mind if I head up?'

'I need to call first, Louis.'

'Call then!' I huff impatiently, standing and shifting irritably, while Clive rings up to the penthouse.

He hangs up and dials again. 'I'm sure I saw him pass through.' he mutters on a frown. 'Maybe, I didn't.'

'His car's outside, he must be here,' I push frantically. 'Try again.' I point to the telephone. Clive presses a few buttons again as I look on.

He hangs up again, shaking his head. 'No, he's definitely not there. And he hasn't put a DND on his system, so he's not asleep or busy. He must have gone out.'

I frown. 'DND?'

'Do not disturb.'

'Oh. Clive, I know he's home. Please, can I go up?' I plead. I can't believe he's being so difficult.

He leans over his desk, narrows his eyes on me and looks to either side, checking the coast is clear. 'I can get in serious trouble for not following protocol, but as it's you, Louis,' He winks. 'Go on.' He thumbs over his shoulder and straightens his green hat.

'Thanks, Clive.'

I jump in the elevator, punch in the code and pray he hasn't got around to re-programming it in the short time I've been gone. I let out a relieved breath of air when the doors close and I start my journey to the penthouse. He's got to answer the door yet – I don't have a key.

My stomach does a few three sixties as the elevator door slides open and I'm faced with the double doors into Harry's apartment. I frown to myself. The door's open and there's music – very loud music.