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“I figured as much.”

“Well, if you hadn’t gone rogue with this place, these plum assignments would’ve been yours.”

“I’m just happy Dad has someone he can trust. You’re the next best thing.”

Tarquin burst out laughing. “It’s great to be back.” He cocked his head, his eyes returning to Alex.

“Did you get that Tower Bridge flat?” Harry nodded to the bartender as she set Tarquin’s water in front of him.

“It’s stunning.” Tarquin’s eyes followed her ass back to the bar. “You can practically reach out and touch it.”

Alex felt the weight of Tarquin’s gaze fall on her again. “Where do you live, Alex?”

She didn’t look up from her plate. “Manchester.”

Harry stepped in. “Lex is off to Manchester next week, staying at her dad’s for a month—and if she stays any longer, Lucy and I will storm his house and drag her home.”

“Lucy?”

“My new girlfriend. She’s an artist. You have to meet her.”

Alex smiled. Harry didn’t hesitate to refer to Lucy as his girlfriend or an artist. She couldn’t wait to tell her.

Tarquin’s phone buzzed. “Hold that thought. I should take this.” He excused himself and walked towards the exit.

Alex waited until he was out of sight and leaned over her plate. “How are you friends with someone like that?”

“The vulgar, laddish crap? He’s just having fun.” Harry chuckled. “He’s showing off because you’re here.”

“Like I’d be attracted to any of that.”

“If you weren’t here, it would be much worse.”

“What did you tell him about me?”

“Nothing personal, don’t worry! He knows how close we are. He knows you’re the antithesis of Olivia. He hated her, she hated him—”

“Wow. I actually agree with Olivia on something.”

“It didn’t help that he dated her best friend and it ended badly. Remember Rosamund?”

“No wonder. If he disposes of women like used condoms—”

“Actually, she cheated on him.” Harry spied his friend walking back to the table. “He’s a good guy and a lot of fun. Actually, I bet you’d have a laugh with him—”

“Hazza, you’ve outdone yourself. This place is smashing.” Tarquin sat back down and pulled out a cigarette and matchbook.

Harry shook his head. “You can’t smoke in here.”

He lit up anyway. “Oh, it’s okay, mate—I know the owner.”

Harry rolled his eyes. “A few puffs then, Balfy, but no more.”

Alex wrinkled her nose.

Tarquin leaned back, smiling at her. “Know what you need, Sincy?”

Only one person ever called her Sincy. She narrowed her eyes.