Page 75 of Fling

But there’s just one fear holding me back . . .

Jack: You can tell me . . .

Claire: My fear is that we’ll meet up but that afterwards . . .

I’ll never hear from you again

Jack: Claire, I would never. I swear.

Claire: I know, I know, but it’s just an irrational fear I can’t control.

It’s just that most men only want one thing

Jack: But I’m not most men, Claire

I would never in a million years hurt you

What we have is too important

Claire: That feels so good to hear x

Jack: So what do you say?

Should we try meeting again?

Claire: It feels so risky but I can’t fight my feelings any more . . .

Let’s do it! Let’s meet for a drink x

Jack: Amazing! Where would you like to go?

Don’t say The Vine, they’ll never give me another reservation haha

Claire: Haha! How about Elixir? It’s a cocktail bar on Harcourt Street x

Jack: Perfect. Does tomorrow work for you?

Claire: Yes! Say 8 p.m.?

Jack: Perfect. Elixir on Harcourt Street, Tomorrow at 8 p.m.

You have no idea how excited I am!!!

Claire: Me too! My heart literally just started beating out of my chest!

Jack: Just please don’t stand me up again haha

Claire: I won’t, Jack.

I’ll be there x

Chapter 24

When Friday arrived, Colin found himself smirking uncontrollably in the hours leading up to his date with Claire. He had been too excited to concentrate on his work that morning so he decided to cash in his winning bet with Rory, who had no choice but to agree. A luxury game of golf felt like the cherry on top of a perfect week. Colin took a deep breath of fresh air and felt more alive than ever.

‘You know the only thing better than a game of golf?’ Colin asked Rory as he lined up his shot.

‘Please don’t say it,’ Rory pleaded.

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