Page 38 of Persuading Penny
And we did, only this time we met at the entrance to Prior Park.
We strolled along the pond, crossed the Palladian bridge and took the footpath that ran behind private homes.
“I like this very much,” he said, his tone deep and thoughtful, as if implying something profound.
“It is lovely, isn’t it? And we have the perfect day for a stroll, too. The sun is warm without being harsh.
“Yes, it is lovely. But actually, I was referring to this.” He pointed to me to himself and me again. “I’m enjoying your company very much. You have a calm about you that is so comforting, so reassuring.”
Blushing, I didn’t know what to say.
“Am I being too forward again?”
I shook my head.
Letting out a sigh, he looked forward and took a deep breath of fresh air. “I do like the place a lot, more than I would have thought possible.”
“Have I convinced you to make the move then?”I said.
He smiled and nodded. “It certainly is different from London, and that’s precisely what I need; what I want. Coming from a banking family, certain things have been expected of me over the years; behavethisway, dressthatway, go tothatschool, getthatjob, move tothatcity...Few things that I’ve done in my life have been of my choosing.”
“That’s a shame.”
“Oh, it wasn’t all bad. My parents had some good ideas. For the longest time, following their advice – if you could call it that – meant living in London. Then came the time for me to go abroad to Paris, then Dubai and then Tokyo. Since returning to London, more than ever, I feel the need to live my life for me...not for my parents.” He looked up at the homes that we passed. “These are lovely. Very nice.”
“The Georgian architecture is very special.”
“Do you know of any places that are for sale?”
“I don’t really know. I’m sure there are a few.”
“I would want a large enough estate. I hate to sound posh, but I’ve grown accustomed to a certain level of luxury. It pleases me to be in beautiful surroundings, and I’ve always had a need for plenty of breathing space.”
“I’m afraid you’d have to consult a realtor. They would be better able to find what you need.”
“I think I might just do that.”
*****
After our walk, weheaded into town to have lunch at the Pump Room.
“Original and strange name,” he said.
“So called for the water pumped from the Roman baths next door. But, more importantly, what makes this place special is that this is one of the place Jane came to socialize and dine.”
He nodded. “That’s right. I’d forgotten about that.”
While it was crowded with many conversations filling the air, he loved the atmosphere, and we had a pleasant time.
“This has been a glorious day,” Steve said as we prepared to part ways.
“I’m glad you enjoyed it, and I hope it was helpful.”
“Very. A very thorough tour, indeed, and more importantly, in the most charming company.”
I’m sure I blushed profusely as he took my hand and gently kissed it.
“I do hope we’ll bump into each other again.”
