Page 19 of A Not So Quiet Christmas
“I might not have seen him yet, but he has a lovely voice.”
I pictured Oliver’s green eyes and warm smile. As nice as Jules thought he sounded, he definitely had the looks to match. “Is that why you gave him my number? Because he has a lovely voice?”
“No. I thought seeing as he’s hoping to find us a tenant, it might be useful for him to liaise with you. Regarding the house.”
I stared back at her, waiting for her to crumble and tell me the truth.
“Well, someone has to think of your love life, because you certainly don’t.”
The woman had no shame.
“Speaking of which, I think you should ask him out,” she said. “On a proper date.”
I let out a laugh. “Jules, I’m not doing anything of the sort.”
“Why not?”
I couldn’t believe she had to ask. “After yesterday? No chance. Besides, I’ve got more important things to think about.”
“Like what?”
“I have a business to set up, remember. I have to sort out a list of all the tools I’m going to need. To research workshop facilities and look into website hosting. As well as sourcing actual stock.”
“All work and no play makes Jack a dull boy, Antonia.”
I let out a laugh. “You’re the one who said I needed to take time out. To reassess my future, remember. Well, that’s what I’m doing. I’m taking your advice. As for Oliver Chase, for all I know he could be as barmy as the rest of them.”
“Carry on like this and you’ll never find out,” Jules said. “There’s nothing wrong with having a bit of fun. See it as a Christmas romance.”
“See what as a Christmas romance?”
“Your date.”
Sometimes there was no talking to the woman.
“I can just picture it.” Jules’s expression turned dreamy. “The two of you, frolicking in the snow, sharing a mug of hot chocolate, chinking glasses of mulled wine… It’ll be like starring in your own festive Hallmark movie.”
My jaw dropped. Sitting in that chair with nothing to do but stare at daytime TV and make Christmas cards was obviously starting to take its toll. “Jules, there is no date. Not now and not ever.”
My friend smiled. “We’ll see.”
