Page 62 of The Last Love Song
Con folded the paper on his lap and stared down at her for a while before delivering his verdict. ‘I can say that if you want me to but it won’t be the truth. You know how I feel about you working. That will never change. But it’s your decision if you want to go and flaunt your body.’
‘Why, Con, don’t be so soft! This is a women’s magazine.’
‘And what happens when it’s swimwear they want you to model, or underwear?’
‘Then I’ll say no.’ Sorcha shook her head. ‘If nothing else,think of the money, Con. A whole twenty pounds! And more to come after that.’
‘You think that makes me feel better? That I can’t provide enough to look after my woman like any decent man should?’
‘No, Con, you’re wrong. Look at Lulu and Todd. Todd doesn’t seem to mind that she supports him.’
‘Lulu’s different.’
‘Why is she, Con? Why?’
‘Because...’ He struggled for an answer. ‘Because she’s...English.’
‘And what difference does that make?’
Con wrinkled his nose. ‘I’d say all the difference.’
‘That’s a pathetic answer and you know it!’ Sorcha forced back the tears. ‘I never knew you were like this, Con, really I didn’t.’
‘Like what?’
‘A chauvinist.’
‘And who taught you that fancy word? Lulu?’
‘No! I may have come from a tiny village in Ireland, but I am literate.’ Sorcha shook her head. ‘This isn’t getting us anywhere, Con.’
‘You’re right.’
She looked up at him. ‘Do you not love me any more?’
Con sighed heavily. ‘Of course I love you, Sorcha. That’s why I don’t want to see you demeaning yourself.’
‘But I’mnot!’ She hit the side of the chair in frustration. ‘Work isn’t demeaning, Con. It gives you self-respect and independence. And until the time comes when your big deal happens, we need the money. And you can’t say we don’t!’
‘Ah, money. It always comes down to that, doesn’t it? I’m not going to argue with you any further. I’m late for Todd already.’ He stood up.
‘Don’t walk out, Con. We have to talk about this.’ Shewatched as he tucked the paper in his jacket pocket and walked towards the door. ‘Please, Con, don’t—’
The door slammed behind him.
‘Hi, Con, Todd’s not here.’
‘Oh.’ Con stood on the doorstep and shuffled uncomfortably at the sight of Lulu in a short bathrobe. ‘He said he’d be back at seven.’
‘Yeah, that’s what he told me. I’m sure he’ll be along soon. Come in before half the street sees medéshabillée.’
‘Thanks.’ Con followed Lulu through the door, down the hall and into the sitting room.
‘Want a drink?’
‘No, thanks.’
‘Okay, but I’m going to have one. I just got a call from my agent. I’ve landed the lead in the next Hammer movie.’
