Page 153 of The Last Love Song
‘Were you looking for me?’
She thought she saw hope in his eyes.
‘No. Helen, actually. The receptionist said she would be down here.’
Con shook his head. ‘No. I’ve not seen hide nor hair of her all afternoon. Why would you be looking for Helen?’
‘Because she asked me to meet her here. We’re going out to supper.’
‘I didn’t know you and Helen were so friendly.’
‘We are. I’m staying with her, actually.’
‘You and Helen McCarthy are housemates?’
‘I had nowhere else to go. Helen’s been very kind.’
Sorcha felt dreadfully dizzy. She took a step towards the door.
‘The receptionist must have got it wrong. I’ll go back upstairs.’ She began to sway.
‘Are you okay?’
‘Yes, I...’ She was seeing stars.Not now, please, she begged her body as her legs threatened to give way completely.
Con caught her as she fell, the cup of coffee he’d been holding splashing to the ground. He half dragged, half carried her to the couch in the corner and laid her on it. Her eyes were closed and her complexion grey.
‘Sorcha, Sorcha.’ He patted her cheeks as her breathing came in short, sharp bursts. He watched helplessly as she gave a low moan and struggled to open her eyes.
‘I’ll ring for a doctor. You’re a terrible colour altogether.’ He stood up.
‘No, it’s passing, don’t. I’ll be fine in a minute. Could you get me some water?’
‘Don’t move. I’ll be seconds.’
Con left the studio, filled a glass with water from the kitchenette tap and ran quickly back along the corridor.
‘There.’ He proffered the water and Sorcha raised her head to take a sip.
‘I’m sorry, Con. I feel a complete eejit.’
‘Don’t be silly. The smell of Derek’s aftershave is enough to make anyone feel faint,’ he smiled.
‘Was he here?’
‘Earlier. And it still lingers.’
Sorcha sat up. Con watched the colour slowly return to her cheeks.
‘Are you ill?’
‘No. I’m fine.’ She was willing herself to find the strength to stand up and leave. ‘I must find Helen.’
‘Reception will know you’re down here. Rest a while. You look a sight still.’
‘Thanks. As a matter of fact, so do you.’
‘Todd broke my nose.’
