Page 29 of Crying in the Rain

“Thank you,” Ade said. “I think you are too. I thought so from the minute I saw you yesterday morning. But to answer your question, yes. I’m absolutely famished.”

“In that case…” Kris took out his debit card and waited for the bartender to look his way, waving the card at her.

“I’m not sure what to do about the car,” Ade said. He hadn’t intended on drinking over the limit, but if he’d been in any state to plan ahead, he’d have booked into a cheap local hotel and left the car there.

“Where did you park?” Kris asked.

“In the car park out back.”

“I’m sure they won’t mind you leaving it there. Want me to ask?”

Ade nodded hesitantly, half-hoping the bartender would say no, but she was at their table already.

“I can’t see it being a problem,” she said. “Just overnight, right?”

Kris looked to Ade to confirm.

“That’s right,” Ade said. “I’ll come back for it first thing.”

“No worries then.” She handed Kris his receipt. “Enjoy the rest of your evening.” She smiled at them both but followed up with a wink that was without question just for Kris.

“Told you so,” Ade said as they stepped out onto the pavement. Kris waved his hand.

“She knows we’re on a date, that’s all.” He paused to fasten his jacket. “Did I do the wrong thing?”

Ade frowned. “When?”

“Suggesting you leave your car in the pub car park.”

“Oh! No. Which way?”

“Towards the town centre.” Kris pointed along the street, and they set off at a slow stroll.

“It seems a nice area.” Ade tried to make it sound like he was making a general observation.

“It is,” Kris confirmed. “Your car should be safe enough.”

Ade chuckled. “I’m not a petrol head or anything. But it was my dad’s car.”

“What is it?”

“An MGB GT. He bought it new in the early seventies, and he took such good care of it. Waxed it every Sunday, full service every year…”

“Vintage or classic? I’ve never really understood the difference.”

“You know more than most. Vintage refers to the really old cars, before production lines. Mine’s a classic slash antique.”

“Can I see it?”

“Now?”

“Why not? We don’t have a reservation anywhere, and it’ll put your mind at ease.”

Ade grinned. “OK then.” They about-turned and headed back. “I should warn you it’s nothing flash or fancy, and it’s not worth much to anyone else…”

“But it’s priceless to you,” Kris said.

“Yes. And here it is.” Ade gestured and stepped aside, beaming proudly. Under the bright blue-white of the car park’s floodlights, his little maroon MG was positively gleaming.

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