Page 11 of Starting Over at Halesmere House
‘Not always.’ Kelly raised a shoulder. ‘But I’ve had a lot of fun along the way and it’s the easiest way to meet people, especially when you work long hours or travel. And I like being able to cut out some of the crap before I even get as far as a date.’
‘I suppose.’ Alice was still doubtful. ‘But I’m not sure how I’ll create a connection with someone through an app or messages. You don’t really know anyone until you spend time with them in real life.’
‘True. So that’s why I think you should seriously consider your sexy tree surgeon, once you’ve established if he’s single, of course. You clearly have a connection already.’
‘We do not!’
‘Well, we’ll find out. He’s coming over.’
Alice froze, aware of Zac crossing the pub and halting between them, a couple of steps back.
‘Hey, Harvey. This a nice surprise.’
‘Ooh, delicious, you two are on second-name terms already.’ Kelly held out a hand to Zac. ‘Hi, I’m Kelly, Alice’s best friend and dating guru.’
‘Zac. Nice to meet you, Kelly.’ Zac shook her hand and then his look was back on Alice. ‘You need a guru to date?’
‘I don’t date so the answer’s no.’ Alice flashed Kelly a glare that dared her to say otherwise.
‘That’s why I’m here, to help Alice remedy that situation.’ Kelly was toying with her almost-empty glass and looking up at Zac through long lashes. Alice had to admit, Kelly was a pro. Maybe she really could learn something here.
‘Oh?’ Zac caught the barman’s attention and Alice wondered if he was making that word sound like a question just to be polite. ‘Can I get either of you another drink?’
‘Won’t your date mind?’ Kelly asked smoothly, running her fingers through short blonde hair swept up and back from her face.
‘I don’t think so, seeing as we’re not actually on a date.’ He removed a wallet from the back pocket of his jeans and Alice noticed the tattoo again, wondering what it represented and why he’d chosen it. ‘It’s more of a work thing.’
‘On a Saturday night?’ Alice hadn’t meant to sound so disbelieving.
‘Some of the people I work with are friends and sometimes we get together outside of work.’
‘So you’re single then? Asking for a friend who’s not looking for anything complicated.’ Kelly shifted on the stool to rest one booted foot on the floor.
Alice jerked her head up at such a blatant question, praying her interest in his response wasn’t plastered all over her face.
‘You can let your friend know that I’m single, but I don’t usually date.’ Zac’s reply was for Kelly and Alice simply wasn’t ready for a glimpse of apology in his eyes when they found hers, maybe even a trace of regret. She was so out of the game she was probably reading far too much into this.
‘You don’t date?’ Kelly hadn’t quite recovered from her surprise either and her voice had risen. ‘Why not?’
‘I like things that way.’
‘Surely you’re talking about relationships, not seeing people or hook-ups!’
‘Kelly.’ Alice placed her hand on Kelly’s arm and gave Zac an apologetic look. ‘Just leave it.’
‘What would you like to drink?’ Zac was ready to order, and he was keeping the barman waiting so they could decide.
‘Our table will be ready soon and we’re going to choose from the wine list.’ Alice put her glass down. ‘But thank you for the offer, Zac.’ His name felt unfamiliar on her lips, in her mind. Sharp, quick, direct, those few letters formed a whole that suited him.
He nodded, ordering a bottle of non-alcoholic beer and a large glass of Chardonnay.
‘So I’ve heard you’re a tree surgeon, Zac. That must be interesting.’ Kelly still hadn’t quite given in.
‘It is – I love it. Keeps me fit and I like working outside.’
‘You sound like Alice.’ Kelly’s smile seemed to be trying to make up for her searching questions a minute ago. ‘I can’t wait to see her new studio; she’s showing me around tomorrow.’
‘Yeah, we’re neighbours, for now. I’ll be finished with Max’s project at Christmas and then I’m moving on. Halesmere’s only temporary for me.’
