She read the card and looked a little puzzled. ‘Very interesting,’ she said.
Pippa stared at her for a few seconds, waiting for her to elaborate, before she took the card from Elle’s hand and read the message aloud.
Dear Elle,
Happy Valentine’s Day!
Love from
Guess who xx
‘Guess who? That’s a let-down,’ Pippa said, clearly disappointed.
‘I suppose that’s what Valentine’s Day is all about – sending anonymous gifts.’
‘Blooming annoying though! First the Sam Stone book appears and now these flowers.’
‘Do you think they’re connected?’
‘I never thought of that. I really don’t know who these could be from.’
‘Ooh, what have you got there?’ Aiden asked as he came up behind them and swept the duster over the front desk.
‘Flowers,’ Pippa answered, stating the obvious. ‘It’s Valentine’s Day.’
‘Who from?’
‘That’s the question,’ Elle replied, still mystified. ‘We’ve no idea.’
‘You’d best go and put them in some water,’ Aiden suggested.
‘Have you discovered any admirers today, Aiden?’ Pippa asked, fishing for gossip. ‘Any special plans for this evening?’
‘Plans for this evening include a microwave meal for one, unless anyone fancies keeping me company?’
‘That sounds like either one of us would do!’ Pippa said, hitting him playfully.
‘Just keeping my options open,’ he joked before heading towards the photocopier to help a customer load the empty paper tray.
‘And why didn’t you jump at the chance?’ Elle whispered to Pippa once he was out of earshot.
ChapterEighteen
‘Come on, what are your plans for tonight?’ Elle insisted. ‘Why not take Aiden up on his offer?’
‘There are a couple of options I’m mulling over.’
‘Which are?’
‘I could go out to dinner with Harry Styles or, as a backup, I could attend a film première with Cillian Murphy.’
‘And failing that?’
‘I think you mentioned yesterday that you’re going to Irene’s for tea? I could come with you. I quite fancy fish and chips.’
‘You’re more than welcome.’
‘Thank you. Now, given that it’s the most romantic day of the year, tell me – have you replied to Noah’s message on Instagram yet?’
