‘And Mark.’
Lisa stopped dead. ‘Markis going to be there?’
‘Yes.’
Eyes wide, she muttered, ‘I should have brought another shovel!’
‘I hadn’t thought of that.’
Lisa brightened. ‘No problem. He can borrow mine. I’ll supervise!’ She resumed walking. ‘I think you’ve got something to tell me.’
‘I haven’t.’
‘Liar. Have you slept with him yet?’
‘No!’
‘You want to, though?’
‘Duh!’
‘Okay, stupid question. Obviously you do. But do you think it’s a good idea?’
‘Probably not.’
‘But you’re going to anyway?’
‘Please don’t judge me,’ Beatrice begged.
‘I’m not. I’m worried about you, that’s all. But as you said, if you don’t, you’ll always be wondering.’
Beatrice’s smile was crooked. ‘I’ve seen him naked before, if you remember. I know what he looks like under his clothes.’
Lisa elbowed her. ‘That’s not what I meant, and you know it.’
It was Beatrice’s turn to stop walking. ‘I’m worried too. I still love him, Lisa. I never stopped.’
‘I get that.’ Lisa put an arm around her, gave her a hug, then propelled her onwards. ‘I must admit, I would do the same in your shoes. Go get ’em, cowgirl!’
‘Fat chance with the kids around.’
Lisa gave her a meaningful look. ‘They’re not around now, are they? They’re atmyhouse.’
‘Are you suggesting that I…we…?’
‘Why not?’
‘It’s eleven o’clock in the morning!’
‘What’s that got to do with it?’
‘I can’t just rock up to him with a shovel in my hand and say take me to bed right now.’
‘I don’t see why not, but if you insist on a build-up, do your bit at the school, then suggest he goes to yours for a spot of lunch. But instead of food, you could-—’
‘I get the idea. There’s no need to spell it out.’
Lisa said, ‘Me and Robin will look after the kids for as long as you need. Take your time.’ She smirked and added, ‘Don’t I have the best ideas?’
