‘I used my imagination.’
‘You are unbelievable.’
‘Look, I understand you being annoyed at me, but don’t take it out on poor Vish.’ Jacob gestured to the jolly man standing by the table. ‘He’s made a real effort for us.’
‘Yes, I can see that,’ she growled.
‘Mr and Mrs Jackson!’ the man greeted them again. ‘So lovely to see you, and congratulations again on getting married.’
‘Thank you, Vish.’ Jacob shook the man’s hand firmly. ‘The table looks stunning, thank you so much.’
‘Only the best for our happy couple.’
Olivia blushed at the lie.
‘Now please, please, take a seat, and one of our waiters will be over to take your drinks order.’
‘Perfect.’ Jacob held out a chair for Olivia. ‘After you, madam.’
‘Don’t you mean, my darlingwife?’
‘Yes, that too.’ He sat down opposite her, the twinkle in his treacle eyes shining especially bright. ‘Did you like the fact I used your surname? Very progressive of me.’
Jacob’s audacity was mind-blowing but, as Olivia took in the view, the ocean only metres ahead of them, the flames of the candles winking at them in the breeze, she had to admit it was a special set-up.
‘Icannotbelieve you did this.’
‘Are you happy I did though?’
‘Maybe … just a little bit.’
‘Good, because I get the impression that you’re a very difficult woman to please.’
‘That’s not true.’
‘Really?’
‘Having high standards is not a bad thing.’ She bristled.
‘I never said it was.’
‘Excuse me, sir, madam.’ A younger but dourer-looking waiter appeared at their side. ‘Can I get you anything to drink? Some wine, perhaps?’
‘We’ll have two bottles of water.’ Jacob looked at Olivia. ‘One still and one sparkling?’
‘Please,’ she confirmed.
‘And …’ He paused, eyeing the thick, leather-bound drinks menu. ‘A bottle of champagne.’
‘What?’ Olivia hissed.
‘You’re right.’ He nodded, turning back to the waiter. ‘Make that two. Thank you very much.’
‘Excellent. I’ll be back shortly with your drinks.’
‘Jacob, what are you doing? You can’t do that.’
‘Why not?’ He leant forward. ‘This is a celebration, right? And I only accept thehighest of standardswhen it comes to my celebrations …’
