Page 114 of Big Duke Energy

ME: I’m an author. Anything you say or do has the potential to end up in my novel. With all identifying factors removed, of course.

Max: But of course.

ME: It’s not going to go in my book, Max.

Max: It is.

ME: No, it’s not. Anything that happens between us will stay between us. What happened tonight wasn’t part of the earlier proposal, was it?

Max: I suppose not. That idea went out of the window with dinner, didn’t it?

ME: Pretty much. Besides, if we are going to spend time together, I’d rather it not be because of any kind of feeling of obligation.

Max: I don’t think us spending any time together is a good idea at all, but I can’t seem to stay away from you.

Stupid smile.

Stupid skippy heart.

I was in so much trouble.

So, so much trouble.

ME: It’s fine. I know how this ends. It’s not as if us sleeping together is going to end in some great, vibrant love story for the ages. Sex is sex.

Max: Mm. I’m going to note right now that I’m not responsible if you fall in love with me.

ME: Puh-lease! You’re far more likely to fall in love with me.

Max: Highly unlikely.

ME: When you fall in love with me and you realise too late because I’m back in London, it’s all on you, mister.

Max: You are very good at tooting your own horn.

ME: Like I said: someone has to.

Max: Again, you’re right. Rest assured there will be no falling on my behalf.

ME: Or mine.

ME: Not counting yesterday when I fell through the door.

Max: I’m glad you mentioned that.

ME: No falling in love. There. Clarification made.

Max: Always smart to draw the line. By the way, there’s karaoke at the pub tomorrow. I believe I owe you.

I wrinkled my face up. I couldn’t sing. Nobody needed me at karaoke.

ME: I don’t know. I can’t sing. At all. It’s awful.

Max: I promised to show you how wild it can be. Everyone will be there. Fred is coming, so bring your brother. Pen will be working until ten.

ME: Mmm… Can I think about it?

Max: No. Trust me when I say you have to see this.

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