Page 84 of Love ad Lib
‘Henry. You’re the best and most wonderful fake boyfriend I’ve ever had.’
Silence filled the room as he gazed at her. It was like being in his arms again. Everything else apart from him disappeared.
‘Lucas is a very, very lucky man,’ he said, softly.
The mention of Lucas’s name slashed the moment to shreds. The sick feeling in the pit of her stomach was back. Shehadto tell him.
‘Henry—’
The gong sounded from downstairs and he checked his watch. ‘We’ve already missed the first one. We really should go. You ready?’
She nodded. Lucas would have to wait.
Henry ledLibby into one of the opulent drawing rooms in the Manor. She hadn’t been in this one and couldn’t take in much of the interior as the room was filled with people. They went to where Estelle was standing, chatting with Eveline and Finn.
‘Can I get you a drink?’ Henry asked Libby.
‘Yes please,’ she replied.
‘Champagne?’
‘Do it,’ said Estelle. ‘It’s proper stuff. Aunt Simone brought it from France with her.’
Libby nodded to him. ‘Thank you.’
Henry walked off through the crowds and Libby moved closer to Estelle.
‘Don’t worry,’ Estelle said. ‘We’ve got you covered. I’ve got a shotgun, Finn’s got a nail gun and Eveline’s got the almighty on speed dial in case you need an emergency smiting.’
Finn rolled his eyes, and Eveline grinned and shook her head.
Estelle put her hand on Libby’s arm. ‘Seriously, you don’t have to be left alone with any of them if you don’t want to.’
‘I met your cousin, Rupert earlier,’ she replied.
Estelle’s eyes widened. ‘On a scale of one to ten, how much of an arse was he?’
‘Estelle,’ said Eveline. ‘Shush. He’s only over there.’
‘And he’s looking at Libby,’ added Finn.
‘Quick! Eveline!’ Estelle whispered as Libby froze. ‘Smite him! Smite him! And whilst you’re at it, get Julian as well.’
Finn snorted and Eveline covered her mouth to hide a grin.
Libby took a wrapped parcel out of her bag and gave it to Estelle. ‘Happy Birthday.’
She frowned. ‘This is for me?’
Libby nodded. ‘Apparently it’s customary on someone’s birthday to get them a present.’
‘You really didn’t have to.’ Estelle felt it. ‘A book?
‘Maybe…’
‘Have you got me Pride and bloody Prejudice?’
She smirked. ‘That’s what I got Henry. I’ve actually got you two books.’
