‘Are we going to sit here for long?’ I asked, starting to feel the cold.
I thought he tutted but surely not; that would be rude. He looked at his watch and said a little too brightly, ‘Any minute now. Look up towards the castle.’
I did as instructed and jumped as a loud bang resonated and the air filled with red sparks followed by blue then green.
‘Oh my God! Did you organise this?’
‘Yes.’
‘For me?’
‘Of course.’
‘I love fireworks.’
‘I know.’
Despite the cold, a warm fuzzy feeling enveloped me. ‘You’re amazing,’ I said. And I realised I meant it. ‘First the balloon flight and now all this.’ I moved in for another hug but he unexpectedly caught me in a kiss instead. As the sky filled with explosions, I completely surrendered to the moment, kissing him back passionately.
But as he drove me back to Seashell Cottage half an hour later, a feeling of uneasiness took a hold again. Did I only kiss him because I’d drunk half a bottle of champagne on an empty stomach? Therefore, was it genuine desire for Andy or yet another ill-advised alcohol-soaked decision spurred on by the arrival of Elise’s text and the excitement of the fireworks?
As I stared out of the window, I heard Clare’s voice in my head from our phone call after the balloon trip: ‘I think the only thing he missed out was some fireworks, which was a missed opportunity because he must remember how much you love them.’ Oh my God! Was she right? Was it all contrived? And was that a bad thing?
33
?? From Andy
Last night on the pier was amazing. I don’t want to be pushy but I do have to be back at work on Monday. I know it’s Saturday and you’re busy at work but can we talk tonight? Please xx
I twiddled with a piece of foliage. He was right. He’d been very patient so far.
?? To Andy
I’ve got some stuff to do but, you’re right, we do need to talk. Can we say 8 pm at Seashell Cottage? Can you eat at the hotel first?
?? From Andy
Will do. See you at 8 xx
I slipped my mobile back into my jeans pocket and returned to the bouquet I was making, but it was a struggle to concentrate. My mind kept wandering to the evening ahead and every time I tried to visualise us sitting on the sofa having a serious discussion aboutwhat the future may hold for us, my thoughts drifted to an image of me lying on the sofa kissing Nick. A flush crept up my body.
?? From Elise
Really hate to say this but I saw Nick & Blonde together again earlier. Are you free tonight for a catch up?
?? To Elise
Serves me right. Would have loved to meet up but Andy’s coming round for a serious talk. Bit nervous. He’s been amazing this week despite me being hot and cold on him
?? From Elise
Don’t rush into anything because of Blonde. We’re guessing they’re an item but we don’t know for sure. Can I suggest you take Nick out of the equation & ask yourself if Andy really is the one for you? Can you really imagine growing old with him? xx
‘Thanks for your help, Mum.’ We’d had a run on newborn and christening gifts so Mum offered to stay back after closing time to help me re-stock the shelves. Two pairs of hands would make speedy work of it and save me from coming in early on Monday. ‘Can I ask you a question?’
‘Of course.’
I unwrapped a silver piggy bank and placed it gently on one of the glass shelves. ‘It’s about you and Dad.’
