Page 45 of Not So Very Sensible

“Want to go?” Ethan asked.

“Not really, but it looks like they’re wanting to clear our space for the next booking.”

They retrieved their jackets and headed back to the lounge, where a smirking Katie sat beside the fireplace, her book in hand, a half-full cup of tea abandoned nearby.

“Katie?”

Katie shrieked and jumped, then patted her chest. “Oh my gosh! Don’t sneak up on me. I was right in the good part.”

“What are you reading?” Ethan asked.

“The Mysteries of Udolpho. I was supposed to read it for university, but I never did, so I’m making up for lost time now.” She eyed them. “Did you have fun?”

“It was very nice,” Ethan said.

“Even if someone here only had Earl Grey,” Ellie teased.

“Something I plan to rectify this coming weekend when I come to visit.”

“You’re coming to Wattle Vale?” Katie exclaimed.

“Your sister plans to educate me in the art of tea.”

“Good luck. She’s a bit of a tea snob, so brace yourself.”

“She’s also promised to make me the best cup of coffee in my life.”

“Ooh, them’s fighting words.” Katie grinned. “Even if it’s probably true. She is the best barista in the family.”

“Well, I’ll look forward to seeing if it is true.”

“Hmm.” Katie eyed him, then pushed to her feet. “You know, you’re not bad, are you?”

“I think badness is another overrated quality in a man.”

She laughed. “I do hope you’ll come and see us. See Ellie, I mean. She’s always focused on work and never dates, so you’ll be good for her.”

“Katie!”

“What? It’s true.” She turned back to Ethan. “You’ll keep in touch, won’t you?”

“Absolutely.”

Katie nodded. “Then you have my blessing.” She turned to Ellie. “Are we leaving now?”

“We probably need to if we’re going to get home before it’s dark.”

“Then, in that case, bye Ethan.” Katie hugged him, then grinned. “Oops. I probably shouldn’t have done that. Ellie’s not much of a hugger, and I don’t want to steal your hug.” She turned to Ellie. “I’ll go visit the restroom while you say your goodbyes; then I’ll meet you in the car.”

“You checked out okay? Everything was paid for?”

“Yes, Mum.” Katie rolled her eyes, then winked at Ethan, grabbed her book and phone, and sashayed away.

Ethan chuckled. “Your sister is kind of fun.”

“When you get her in the right mood, she’s awesome.”

“Speaking of awesome”—he drew closer—”have I mentioned how much I’ve enjoyed getting to know you?”