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Both women looked at Matt, and then turned to look at each other.
‘I think we might be interrupting something,’ Susan said, with a wry smile.
‘I think so, too,’ Connie agreed. ‘Care to join me for a glass of bubbly in the bar, Susan? You can tell me all about your divorce.’
‘Thank you, Connie. I’d like that. And feel free to tell me about yours.’
‘I’d be delighted to.’ Connie led Susan away. ‘I warn you, it’s messy.’
‘Messy? My husband’s a convicted criminal.’
‘And mine’s a cheating scumbag.’
Susan sighed. ‘We have such a lot in common.’
‘We’re going to be so good for each other.’ Connie glanced back and gave Beth a quick wink. ‘Don’t mind us, carry on as you were.’
Matt let out an exasperated sigh. ‘I swear to god, if one more person interrupts us—’
Beth grabbed his hand and dragged him out of the lobby into the museum.
He didn’t resist, allowing her to lead him further into the dark space, away from prying eyes.
‘We should be safe in here,’ she said, almost running in a bid to escape any further unwelcome intrusions. This conversation was happening, one way or another. When they reached the makeshift bar, with the upturned beer barrels and pirate statues, she turned to him. ‘You were saying?’
He stopped and took a breath. ‘Remind me, I’ve forgotten.’
Her stomach deflated a little. ‘Are you kidding me?’
He grinned. ‘Of course I am.’
She breathed a sigh of relief.
‘Jesus, Beth, if you don’t realise how I feel about you by now then I might as well give up.’
She took a step closer. ‘Please don’t.’
His face fell. ‘Sorry.’
‘No, I mean, please don’t give up. I don’t want you to give up.’
His eyes grew wide. ‘You don’t?’
She shook her head. ‘I don’t.’
He lifted his hand. ‘Just so we’re clear, I’m looking for a relationship. The whole shebang. Romance, trust, companionship, commitment. Nothing less.’
She tilted her head. ‘Did you really just use the word shebang?’
He looked sheepish. ‘I did.’
‘My grandma uses that word.’
‘Well, so do I. So, sue me.’
‘No, thanks.’ She stepped closer. ‘I’ve made a promise never to get involved with legal matters concerning the people I love.’
He stilled. ‘Love?’
