Page 50 of Don't Fall in Love (and how to break the rules)

Chrissie was breathing hard as she watched him leave. Rae held out their hand and grasped Chrissie’s.

“You ok?” they asked gently.

“Yes,” said Chrissie. “Yes, I am.” She felt a smile form on her face. “I think perhaps I need a stiff drink, but apart from that, I’m actually good.” She walked back to their table. “I’ve never stood up to him before,” she continued. “I was so scared, but I knew I had to face him, to tell him no, not this time and not ever again. He doesn’t have control over me anymore.”

“Bravo!” said Rae, their face transformed by a broad smile. “I’m getting us some Prosecco to celebrate.”

Chrissie grinned. She felt shaky after the confrontation, but elated at the strength and power she felt. It was as though the last strings that had bound her to that man, to that group, to that time, had been severed.

She picked up her phone, and before she knew what she was doing, she was texting Nisha.

Chapter Forty-Six

“Isee you’ve cracked open the good stuff,” said Nisha, as she walked into the Vine.

“You came to see me?” said Chrissie, surprised to see the short figure dressed in football kit approaching.

“After hearing about such a dramatic event? I could hardly not! Besides, I’d just finished footy practice, so I can order some chips to replenish my athletic physique.” Nisha patted her rounded stomach as she spoke.

Chrissie smiled. “Come here.” She stood to embrace Nisha.

“I’m all muddy,” warned Nisha.

“I don’t care!” The couple hugged and Nisha kissed Chrissie on the cheek.

“Well done,” said Nisha. “Mind if I join you? You must be Rae, I’ve heard how fabulous a friend you are to Chrissie.” She held out her hand and Rae shook it.

“And it’s wonderful to meet you, having heard about you for the last few weeks,” said Rae.

“All good things, I’m sure,” said Nisha with a wink.

“Well,” replied Rae, “I’m not going to lie, there was a bit of angst, but lately it’s definitely been good.”

“I’ll take that,” said Nisha, waggling her eyebrows and throwing an arm around Chrissie’s shoulders. “Right, I’m ordering chips. Anyone else want anything?”

“Oooh,” said Chrissie, “sweet potato fries for me. It seems only fair.”

“You know how to live.” Nisha smiled at her before heading to the bar.

“She seems lovely,” said Rae.

“I know,” agreed Chrissie, grinning a stupid grin.

“Oh my God, hearts have practically popped up in your eyes. You totally love her!” exclaimed Rae, eagerly pouring out more Prosecco.

“Shhhhhhhh,” said Chrissie, causing Nisha to turn around and look at them. “Don’t say that!”

“I don’t need to,” said Rae, “your face says it all.”

Chrissie laughed. Perhaps it did. And perhaps she needed to worry less about it.

An hour later they had eaten their fill of chips of both varieties, and were onto their second bottle of Prosecco. “I am going to regret this at the early morning yoga class,” said Rae, slurring the words.

“I don’t think I’ve ever seen you drunk,” observed Chrissie, feeling the effects herself.

“No,” said Rae, “I don’t tend to drink much. Not sure what happened today.”

“I’ll tell you what happened,” said Nisha, “Chrissie faced down the evil cult leader and told him where to stick it. And I, for one, am here for it.” She raised her glass. “To Chrissie being badass.”

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