Page 10 of The Gin Lover's Guide to Dating

Dylan searches my face, his expression unreadable. Uncomfortable, I look away.

‘Look, I know you had it tough.’ He reaches over and squeezes my shoulder affectionately, sparking an automatic flinch given the current topic of conversation. ‘It hasn’t been plain sailing for any of us. But that doesn’t mean you need to turn into the ice queen, cut everyone off, and pretend it never happened. Especially given what happened today. You need a bit of support.’

‘I’m not cutting people off, Dylan.’ I try to hide the exasperation from my voice. ‘I just want to make something of myself. I want a decent life. Withoutherin it. She’d bleed me dry if she got the chance. Now, can we talk about something else – please?’

Dylan watches me for a moment then stubs out his cigarette.

‘Probably not the time to be suggesting – given your current predicament – that you switch from your poncey gin to the Lidl one then either? It’s only a tenner a bottle.’

This time Dylan gets my full death stare.

‘Right then, time to make a move, I guess.’ He swiftly gets up from his seat and heads back indoors; I follow close behind. ‘I’m glad you’re OK – or you’re at least faking being OK. If you need anything, give me a bell.’

To my surprise, he plants a little kiss on the top of my head.

‘Iamfine. I’m not putting it on.’ I stand with my arms folded to show him I mean business.

‘Whatevs. Later, Squirt.’ He gives me a wink and then disappears out the door.

Chapter 3

‘Liv, it’s so great to see you!’

‘It’s only been a week.’ I give my friend and colleague, Stella, a quick hug and hop up onto the bar stool next to her.

Why is everyone treating me like some long-lost pal?

‘Iknow that,’ Stella gushes. ‘But I’m so glad you came. Tony will be too. I just can’t believe he’s retiring already…’

I tune out distractedly as Stella continues her outpouring. Why the hell wouldn’t I have come tonight? I’m moving on, not awaiting sentence for defrauding the company.

‘So, howareyou doing?’ Stella leans in conspiratorially, her tonged blonde ringlets tumbling forward into her face. ‘Really, I mean. Last week must have been tough.’

So much for Anya quashing the rumours. I’ll just have to deal with them myself.

‘Come on.’ I laugh. ‘You haven’t fallen for the nonsense that’s been circulating, have you?’

‘Oh, no.Obviouslynot.’ Stella gives a tinkling laugh that lands a bit hollow. ‘I was just… worried about you.’

‘Well thanks, I’m great.’ I pat Stella’s shoulder. ‘I’ve got a couple of interviews lined up already.’

‘Good for you, Liv! Seizingthe day.’

‘Yes. I am.’ I eye my friend, suspiciously. ‘So, have there been any more announcements?’

Stella just about chokes on her champagne. ‘Oh, goodness. Sorry, Liv, just realised I forgot to… um… tell Steve what to feed the kids tonight. Be right back.’

I’m left alone, as Stella dashes outside in her bling – and clearly too high stilettos.

Scanning the room, I spot Tony at the bar, just along from me.

‘Tony, how are you?’ I greet him warmly. ‘Your big day is finally here.’

‘It is indeed, young Liv,’ Tony booms in his baritone voice, his plump, weather- beaten cheeks bright red from the alcohol. ‘Couldn’t have come faster. How are you, love? Are you doing all right?’

Please, not another one.

‘I’m great thanks.’ I make myself sound as self-assured as I possibly can. ‘Got a few interviews lined up.’

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