Page 104 of For Love or Money
‘Hm?’ she squeaked, looking up at him from under her lashes.
‘About taking care of your needs,’ he continued cheerfully, without a trace of embarrassment or awkwardness. Lesley concentrated hard on her menu. ‘I meant what I said.’
‘Oh, right. Good to know, thanks.’
‘Have you thought about it at all?’
‘Um, yeah … sort of.’ Lesley was breaking into a sweat that had nothing to do with her hangover. She prayed for a waiter to come and rescue her.
‘And?’ Al looked at her expectantly.
‘I think I’ll have the steak frites. I need spuds.’
‘Oh, right. But I meant—’
‘What about starters? Do you fancy going halves on an antipasti platter?’
‘Yes, sure – sounds good.’
‘Have you decided what you’re having? I was only joking about the lobster – have whatever you want.’
‘Thanks. But I think I’ll have the same as you.’
He put down his menu, and she was glad that subject seemed to be closed. He folded his hands on the table. ‘Anyway, the offer still stands,’ he said.
‘Oh.’ Shit, the subject wasn’t closed after all.
‘Any time you like,’ he said, ‘I’m at your disposal.’
‘Great! Well, thanks. I’ll … let you know if I change my mind.’
‘If it helps, I’ve been told I’m very good. I can provide excellent testimonials.’
‘Well … good for you!’ She looked around frantically, trying to catch a waiter’s eye. ‘You should set up a website. Spread the word.’
‘You’d have a good time. I’d make sure of that.’
‘Okay, noted.’ Lesley nodded seriously as if she intended to give it careful consideration.
‘Excellent,’ he said breezily. ‘Well, now that that’s out of the way, let’s enjoy our lunch.’
Thankfully, Al dropped the subject after that, and Lesley was able to relax and enjoy the food, which was delicious.
‘Stella was really shook up about that photo of her and Rafe online,’ Al said.
‘I know! It was kind of weird how she reacted, wasn’t it?’ Lesley perked up as the conversation turned to Stella and they were soon engrossed in discussing the latest developments.
‘I’m starting to like Stella,’ she admitted. ‘I’m kind of hoping there’s some innocent explanation for whatever it is she’s hiding. Although the only innocent explanation I can think of wouldn’t be something I’d wish on anyone.’
‘Abusive ex?’
Lesley nodded. ‘I’m sorry I haven’t been able to find out much. I feel like a bit of a fraud taking your money when I haven’t really achieved anything.’
‘Don’t feel like that. You’re getting close to her. It takes time.’
‘Time we haven’t got.’ Lesley sighed. ‘But don’t worry. I’m going to be her bridesmaid, so that will give me lots of opportunities to dig around and get more personal with her. I’ll redouble my efforts when we’re back in Dublin.’
‘And there’s always the chance Jane and Peter will get back together and solve the whole problem.’
