person”.
Mikey always said I was ruthless when it came to business. But I had to be – get emotionally involved, and I’d never be able to reject someone for a job, let alone sack them. Dave’s lopsided smile crept into my mind. Was I ruthless in my personal life as well? He hadn’t texted me since last night and – between us – I actually read half that Fifty Shades book before going to bed. Well, certain bits, anyway! I could see why it had sold so well. But text him back? I wasn’t my mother – wasn’t going to go overboard to please someone who’d hurt my feelings.
In fact, as I stood in Bladen Place market, by my favourite second-hand bookstall, I was amazed by the plethora of erotic books. I ran my hand over a pile of crime novels, tempted to stop and browse. I shivered. Despite the February sun it was cold. And I only had two hours to pick up a few accessories that would help me look remotely stylish when I landed in the Big Apple.
You see, really – smart work clothes aside – I was just a T-shirt and jeans kind of girl, which is why me and casual Dave always fitted well. Mikey despaired.
‘Jazz! You’ve got a great figure. For God’s sake show off your waist and pins with the occasional dress or high shoes.’
I smiled again to myself and stopped at an Indian stall. Those silk scarves were amazing – something my flatmate would definitely approve of. And one wouldn’t add much weight to my luggage, plus would up-style the plainest of tops. Breathing in the exotic aroma of musky joss sticks, I reached up for a ginger and tangerine one, bearing an intricate floral pattern.
‘Nice,’ said a deep voice, next to me.
I didn’t need to turn around. Warmth spread across my chest. His voice did things to me that no other sound did. ‘What are you doing here?’ I asked brightly and continued to handle the scarf, despite my pulse racing at an Olympic speed.
‘Looking for a present for someone.’
Okay. I give in. My ice queen act didn’t last very long. Dave met my gaze with a sheepish expression and nodded at the scarf. ‘Great colours. Would go with your brown suede jacket.’
‘I hadn’t thought of that. Guess I’d better buy it, then.’ I handed over a tenner and the stallholder put the scarf in a bag.
‘How come you’re here?’ said Dave in a bright voice. ‘I’d have thought you’d be too busy getting ready to move next week.’
‘I need a few essentials for my trip.’ Oh God. Just the thought of my mouth on his sent funny feelings to places deep within me.
‘What – a neck pillow for the journey and some comfy slippers to wear once in the air?’
I couldn’t help grinning. Dave knew me well. Creature comforts normally came before fashion.
‘Actually, I’m hoping to buy a few items that will make me feel a little more glam.’
Dave stopped. ‘Are you serious? You’ve got a natural glamour that won’t fail to impress.’
Those dark eyes didn’t flicker with humour. That was one of the things that first attracted me to him – he didn’t do bullshit.
‘Fancy a quick bite to eat?’ he said and jerked his head towards a stall selling sweet and savoury pancakes. Behind it were a couple of tables, with chairs.
I bit my lip. ‘I told you – I wanted to cool off.’
Dave rubbed his arms. ‘Yes and damn cold it is too!’
I rolled my eyes. Dave always thought his jokes were so good.
He held his hands in the air. ‘Honest. No inquisition. I won’t question you about next week or talk about last Sunday night.’ He sniffed. ‘Hmm. I smell mozzarella and pesto – perhaps followed by a peanut butter one for dessert.’
‘You knew you’d have me at peanut butter.’ We exchanged smiles and I followed him over to the stall. A man my age, in a hurry, banged into me and I dropped my bag. I flinched as I stood up. Habit – even after all these years. If anyone did that to my mum, Dad would have grabbed his collar and threatened all sorts, seeing the
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