Page 14 of Never Too Late to Date

The blister on her right heel was seriously starting to make itself known. She shouldn’t have worn the high gold wedge espadrilles, but sensible footwear really wasn’t her bag. Being on the smaller side – she hated to use the word ‘short’ – the idea of serving behind the bar in trainers did nothing for her. But she was suffering for her vanity now.

The sight of Vicky walking in with a big smile on her face was a welcome relief. Someone her own age to talk to. Suzie waved her over.

‘Hey. You’ve come to check us out.’

‘Yes, no time like the present … and I’m desperate for a drink.’

‘Tough day?’

‘You could say that.’

‘This one’s on me.’

‘Thanks.’

Suzie took two beers from the fridge and walked round to the front of the bar. She shouted over at her younger son.

‘Taking my break now.’

Kostas shrugged extravagantly.

‘Pah!’

‘Don’t moan. I am still the boss, you know…’

She caught the wink he threw in her direction.

‘Not for long!’

She steered Vicky towards her youngest son and introduced them, before briefly stopping at Giannis and Kat’s table too, now they’d been reunited.

‘OK, now you’ve met my boys.’

‘They both seem utterly charming.’

Suzie grabbed Vicky by the arm.

‘Yeah. I love them to bits, but I need some “me time” just now. Let’s go and sit in that far corner, away from everyone.’

‘Suits me.’

Both women slumped down on their chairs and exhaled before putting the distinctive green glass bottles to their lips. A few moments of silence were what was called for. Bottle drained, Suzie lifted her hand for another.

‘You on?’

Vicky nodded. ‘After the day I’ve had, it’s a yes from me.’

‘Would it help to talk about it?’

Vicky’s expressive eyes clouded over for a moment. ‘I’d love to. Sadly, I’ve promised someone I won’t, but believe me it’s not good.’

This woman could obviously keep a secret. It confirmed Suzie’s initial instinct that Vicky was a good thing and not the type to blurt out your business all round town. Most of the Greeks she’d encountered were surprisingly keen on gossip, including the men.

Suzie gripped the edge of the table. ‘In that case, can I talk to you about something that’s eating me up?’

She could talk to the boys about it, but they wouldn’t be much use debating whether she could still get away with leather trousers. Horror would probably be the overwhelming reaction to that question.

Vicky put both elbows on the table and leant forward.