‘Sex is so different for men, Gracie. We get so much more involved, I reckon. They can just stick their cocks in and out of whoever they please, and then walk off with no emotion.’
Gracie smiled. ‘You so have a way with words, Maya.’
‘Think of it as a function men have to perform. Like drinking or going to the toilet. It has nothing to do with their hearts or feelings, just their dicks. Think of it like that with Lewis. He wanted the sex, not the person. A throw-away shag.’
‘But the deceit will never go away.’
‘Were you having sex at the time?’
‘That’s not the point.’
‘It is. Just think that instead of him having sex, he went out for a drink. Quenched his sexual thirst and came back again.’
‘That makes it sound so simple.’
‘It is that simple. Men are animals; they are physical. Lewis didn’t stop loving you for one moment, I’m sure of that. His heart and his head weren’t connected that night. He was drunk.’
‘And how would I know he’d never do it again?’
‘How do we know anything, Gracie? I don’t even think we should be monogamous, to be honest – it’s a strange concept in my view.’
‘I would never be unfaithful.’ As she said it, Gracie thought back to her night with Leo, that not a single soul, apart from Noms, knew about. She had done the same to Ed, really. Gone behind his back.
‘Anyway, it’s you we need to be talking about. How you are feeling and how far gone are you?’ Gracie looked to Maya’s tiny tummy.
‘I’ve literally just missed my period so just feel a bit sick, but that’s all.’
‘OK. Let me make some enquiries. I will just find out the process for you, won’t give any details. Are you one hundred per cent sure this is what you want?’
‘No, none of the scenarios are right. But at least with adoption, the child will have a chance. If I abort, I give up their chance of life. If I tell the father, I give up my chance of life as I know it.’
‘Well, I’m here for you all the way. If you need to talk, call me whatever time it is.’
‘Gracie, you are a special lady – don’t ever let anyone say any different.’
Just then, Boris barked from under the table.
‘Sorry, Boris, we forgot about you, you’ve been so patient. Come on, boy.’
‘Oh, before I forget, Gracie. I got this for you.’ Maya handed her a small black jewellery box.
Looking confused, Gracie opened it slowly, then let out a cry of surprise and gave Maya a hug. For there inside, on a little red piece of velvet, was tiny faux-diamond nose stud.
‘I know you’ve always wanted one. Go on, be brave. I think it will suit you.’
Gracie laughed. ‘Oh shit, I have no excuse now. Thanks, Maya, that’s so thoughtful of you. But don’t you think I’m a bit old for a nose piercing?’
‘Gracie, age is just a number. Besides, you’re never too old to do something that makes you feel bold and beautiful.’
Gracie felt a warmth run through her. ‘And just look at our friendship. Age hasn’t even come into that.’
‘Exactly!’ Maya smiled.
Boris was now whining very loudly.
‘Come on, mister. Let’s walk you, before you internally combust.’
SEVENTY-FOUR
