Page 84 of Forever Mr Black

“I’m fine, really. Thank you.”

She reaches forward and picks up my left hand, twisting my engagement ring between her fingers. “I remember the day Arthur proposed as if it were yesterday. We’d gone for a stroll in Richmond Park. It started out a lovely autumn afternoon, but we hadn’t been out five minutes, and it bucketed down. We took shelter under a huge oak tree, and he popped the question.” She smiles fondly at the memory. “That was one of the best days of my life. And when Art came to us, of course.”

She lowers my hand but doesn’t let go. “Just because Art doesn’t tell me things doesn’t mean I don’t know. He’s successful and good-looking. I can only imagine what he’s got up to over the years. I so wanted him to settle down but never thought he’d do it. But I knew you were different. That evening, when he was drunk and called me by mistake, I knew. He didn’t need to tell me you were the best thing that had ever happened to him. I could tell just from the way he said your name how muchhe cared for you, that the thought he’d messed things up was killing him. And when I met you that day when he was hungover, I knew I was right. You were upset, but I could see you loved him, and that’s why I told you about his past.” She smiles to herself knowingly. “I wanted you to know, so you’d understand him. He’s complex.”

My throat tightens with emotion. “He is.”

“And he’s totally in love with you.” Barbara beams. “And he was right. You are the best thing that’s ever happened to him.”

Tears well in my eyes.

I don’t hear the front door close, and I’m not aware of a figure standing in the doorway until I hear Art say, “Is everything okay?”

Barbara smiles, and I regain my composure. “Of course, dear. I’ve just popped by to make sure your lovely fiancée is all right.”

Art rubs a hand through his hair and looks at me with a smile. “She’s good. We’re good.”

We’re more than good.

She gets to her feet. “I can see that. I’ll be on my way.”

“Are you sure? Would you like a cup of tea or something?” I ask, immediately feeling like a terrible host.

“No, dear. It’s fine, really.” She pulls her handbag onto her shoulder. “I’m en route to Harrods to take a look at wedding outfits.”

“Are you sure, Mum? You can stay for a drink.”

“I’m fine.” She waves a hand dismissively. “I’ll leave you both to enjoy your day off.” She stops in front of Art in the doorway and pats her hand against his chest. “You take care of her,” she says with a nod in my direction.

He grins. “Always, Mum.”

Barbara smiles. “Bye, Sophie.”

“See you, Barbara. Thanks for coming by.”

She disappears off down the hall, and a few seconds later, the door bangs closed.

Art walks over to me. “Are you all right?”

“Yes. Your mum popped round to check if I was okay. It was really nice of her, considering she was the one who had a bit of a shock yesterday.”

He slides his warm, sweaty arms around my waist. His hair’s damp and messy, and his white T-shirt is sticking to his chest. “She was worried about you when you took off. As was I.”

I link my arms around his neck, and he presses his warm body against mine. “She agreed that I’m the best thing to ever happen to you.”

“You are.” He scoops me up and puts me down on the counter in one easy move. “The very best.” He pushes open my legs with his hand and shifts in between my thighs, kissing me.

“I was about to make breakfast.”

He dips his hands beneath my white T-shirt and skates his fingertips up my back to my bra clasp. “I know what I want.”

I smile. “You had that yesterday.”

“I want it again today.” He plants a line of kisses down my neck because he knows it’s a sure-fire way for him to get his way. “And every day after that.”

I close my eyes and tell myself to keep strong. “Maybe you should shower first.”

His kisses slow as he considers my suggestion. “Mmhmm … are you coming in with me?”

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