Page 103 of An Unholy Affair
He nodded, casting his eyes around for a spare chair.
‘Hang on.’ Jack grabbed one from the side of the room. ‘Now ladies, Robert needs to be in a particular position in order to see the section I’m about to paint.’ He put the chair at one end of the semi-circle. ‘Enid and Ada, would you mind moving along one place so he can sit here?’
They complied and Robert sat next to Shirley, colour rising in his cheeks. Jack hid his smile, deflecting the other women’s attention as Robert and Shirley murmured hellos to each other.
‘Right then, ladies and gentleman, the art channel is now beaming live into your living room with your host, Mr Jacccccccck Newton!’
An hour later,Jack had nearly outlined all the major details of the mural, as well as given an impromptu lecture on perspective, composition, and colour. When Erica announced lunch was served, his audience burst into rapturous applause and made their way slowly to their feet for a standing ovation.
As they left the room, Robert hung back.
‘How’s it going with Shirley?’ Jack asked, dropping his voice.
Robert looked ten years younger, his eyes alight. ‘Very well, I think. Your advice was spot-on.’
Jack’s chest warmed. ‘That’s brilliant. See, I knew you could do it.’
‘It’s been simply wonderful getting to know her, it’s just that…’
‘Yes?’
‘It’s all verypublic.’ Robert frowned. ‘I’d like to invite her to my flat for a meal, but I’ve never learnt to cook anything beyond the bare minimum. I want to do something special.’
Across the room, Gladys the gorgon’s eyes were closed, but Jack still lowered his voice further.
‘That’s easy. You can get some really high-quality ready meals nowadays.’
‘Would you help me choose a menu?’
‘Of course.’
‘And…’ Robert’s frown deepened.
‘Anything you need, just ask.’
‘It’s my leg. I can’t walk far. If I gave you some money, would you be able to do the shopping for me?’
‘Absolutely.’
‘And pick out a good wine? You know far more than I do.’
Only because I seem to have drunk more of it than water over the last few years… Jack nodded. ‘Yes, not a problem.’
Robert’s face relaxed into a relieved smile. ‘Thank you.’
‘When’s date night?’
‘Next week maybe? I’ll let you know if she says yes.’
‘She will, I promise you.’
As the room emptied,Jack took out his phone just as a message pinged in.
Eveline: I’m so sorry about Simon earlier. He’s still here but just popped to the toilet. Are you free later? xxx
Jack: Yes. What time works for you? XXX
Eveline: Not sure yet, sorry. I’ll message you as soon as he leaves xxx
