‘In fairness, he did probably have a few pints with the lads in Connemara, Rosemarie.’
‘Ally, be very careful. Whenever I hear you say “in fairness”, I know you’re about to get walked on by someone. I’m not saying he’s not a nice guy, he’s just a bit more .?.?. earnest than I’d be able for.’
‘I don’t know, Rosemarie. We all need something to live up to.’
‘The fuck we do, that’s your overachiever family talking. That’s what stops you feeling good about yourself when you should.’
Rosemarie was a fabulous friend, and she had some views that were nigh on impossible to argue with.
‘Anyway, out of curiosity I made an excuse to cruise by William’s desk this morning. You’re welcome.’
‘And?’
‘It was his coffee break. He was reading.’
‘Interesting. Reading what?’
‘I don’t fucking know. A book by some bald guy. Never mind that, what I want to know is, is he a good kisser? I’m guessing yes.’
Yikes, this was going to call for a bit of invention, because the truth was pretty hazy. The memory of his warm probing tongue in her mouth flooded back for a moment. On the other hand, this was Rosemarie, so there was no point in lying.
‘We were both pretty pissed.’
‘The start of so many great love stories. And?’
‘I started to feel queasy, so I panicked and bolted.’
‘It happens. Did you tell him?’
Ally shook her head.
‘That’s the main thing. No harm done. You just need a second chance.’
‘But how?’
‘Leave it to me.’
The waiter in the summery sombrero, which was looking more and more dismal on the sodden first day of November, trailed by wearily so they ordered their second margarita.
‘So, how are the new fish babies? What’re their names?’
‘Harry and Sally.’
‘Pow! Good choice.’
‘That’s what Pete said, it was his idea.’
Rosemarie nailed her with a stare through her oversized glasses.
‘Pete?’
‘Don’t look at me like that. He’s just a pal at work .?.?. he’s a bit of a laugh. I’ve actually been glad of him these past couple of days.’
‘Pete the Pal, OK, I’m saying nothing. Hey, what’re you doing Saturday?’
‘Working.’
‘Great, I’m going to drop by to say hi, have a cappuccino. I can’t wait to see you in your latest incarnation. I think it’s kind of romantic, actually, working in a café. Like Jennifer Aniston inFriends.’
