Page 38 of Love Me Till Wednesday

Mel sat bolt upright. ‘Seriously? I go on holiday for a fortnight and you move your ex in with you. You owe me a fiver.’

Lisa smirked. ‘He’s staying in the guest bedroom.’

‘Oh yes. And how long is that going to last?’

‘For as long as he needs a roof over his head. Actually, it’s been great having him about the place. He cooks dinner every night. We’ve been to the cinema together. It’s all very civilised.’ And it was. The last couple of weeks had been great having company. The only downside was everyone assuming they were a couple again.

‘So what happens a fortnight on Friday? Is Pete finding somewhere new as well?’

‘No. He’s coming with me.’

‘Isn’t that going to be awkward if you find a new man?’

‘Don’t start that again. I am happy as I am.’

Mel started eyeing up a fit-looking 30-something man who had just walked into the pool area. He caught her eye as he took off his robe.

Mel raised her eyebrows at Lisa. ‘Tall, blonde, blue eyes. He’s just your type.’

The object of her attention started striding towards them with his head held high and his stomach held in, showing off an impressive set of abs.

‘Ladies,’ he said before descending the steps into the pool. Mel raised her smoothie glass in acknowledgement.

He looked a lot like Nick at that age. It reminded Lisa of the scene in one of his movies where he swam naked.Don’t go there, Lisa. She fanned herself with a treatment brochure that happened to be lying on the table next to her recliner.

‘Hot flush?’ Mel asked.

‘Something like that. Anyway, he fancies himself too much,’ Lisa whispered to Mel when he was out of earshot. ‘And what’s he going to want with an old sod like me?”

‘You’re still looking good for your age.’

‘For my age. Thanks!’

Mr Abs was swimming back towards them now. ‘Are you going to join me?’ He had a soft accent, possibly Canadian. He looked at both of them, but his eyes spent more time on Lisa.

Mel excused herself. ‘I’m going try the steam room before we have to leave.’

‘How about you?’ he asked Lisa.

He was definitely interested, and a swim would be nice. ‘I guess that could be fun.’

Mel and Lisa were sitting together on the District Line train back into London. ‘So? Did you get his number?’ Mel asked.

‘Who? Nathan?’ Lisa said casually.

‘If that’s his name.’

‘He gave me his business card.’

‘And what does he do?’

‘I’m not entirely sure. His job title was vague. I think he’s an advertising exec in the oil industry.’

‘That sounds well paid.’

‘I’m sure it is. But I’ve no desire to look at his bank balance or any other of his personal assets.’

‘Why not? He’s hot.’

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