Page 41 of Hook, Line and Single

‘Especially after the stunt you pulled last night,’ I remind him.

‘Yes. Especially after that. Although we did have a great time today, didn’t we?’

‘Yes. Carry on.’

‘I’ve also got a problem, because Ashleigh just doesn’t seem to be getting the message, despite my best efforts. So the big question, to my mind, is how to get Barry and her off our backs so we can both enjoy the rest of the holiday without interference.’

‘That would be good, I agree.’

‘Here’s where we get to the controversial bit. There’s an easy way to do it, but I’m not sure you’ll like it.’

‘Just tell me what it is.’

‘Before I do, can I just reiterate that I know you’re not looking for a relationship, and neither am I. But I do enjoy doing the shore trips with you, and I hope you enjoy them too.’

‘Cameron, you’re starting to annoy me now.’

‘Fine. You and I go red as a couple.’

‘What?’

‘Think about it. It solves all our problems. Barry gets off our back, Ashleigh stops harassing me and we can carry on doing the shore excursions, just as friends.’

‘And what am I supposed to tell Sam?’

‘That’s up to you. You could tell her the truth or you could let her stew. I’m easy either way.’

‘It seems a bit like a nuclear option. Isn’t there anything less extreme?’

‘If there is, I can’t think of it. I’m always open to suggestions though. I don’t think it’s actually that extreme. Yes, Barry will be all over us like a rash tonight, but then his focus will shift to the rest of the group.’

‘I need time to think about it.’

‘OK. No pressure from me. One more question though.’

‘What?’

‘Am I dreaming, or is that Brad and Gail chatting at the bar?’

I follow his gaze and he’s right. Unfortunately, Brad looks up at exactly the same time and waves, before saying something to Gail.

‘Shit,’ I murmur to Cameron while plastering a fake smile on my face. ‘They’re coming over. I can feel a sudden migraine coming on. I may have to escape to my cabin to lie down.’

‘Hey, guys,’ Brad calls as they approach. ‘How was your day?’

‘Good, thanks, Brad,’ I reply politely. ‘What about you?’

‘Better, I think. I took your advice.’

‘He was great company today,’ Gail enthuses. ‘Strip away the bullshit and it turns out there’s a pretty decent guy under there.’

‘Plus,’ Brad admits with a rueful smile, ‘I’ve no idea what Maltese sounds like, so I couldn’t try to pretend I speak it.’

‘Just as well,’ Gail chides. ‘I don’t think I could stand that again. “Uno Biero”, honestly.’

‘What was wrong with that?’ Brad asks. ‘The guy understood me.’

‘Nothing, except the correct phrase isuna birra.’

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