Love on the Run by Suzie Tullett

Author:Suzie Tullett [Tullett, Suzie]
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Bloodhound Books

CHAPTER 27

Hannah frowned, as she watched Francesca stare at her own reflection in the sports centre panes of glass. The woman faffed with her hair, making sure her long brunette ponytail remained perfect. Anyone would think they were about to take part in a fashion show not a workout session.

“She overheard us talking about the race,” Mel said, keeping her voice low. “And invited herself onto the team.”

“We don’t want her here either, but we couldn’t exactly say no,” Liv said. “Not when it’s all for charity.”

Hannah appreciated their dilemma. Refusing to let Francesca join the team would have contradicted the public-spirited nature of the event. Plus, in her bid to be the best at everything, Francesca was bound to raise a tonne of money.

Suddenly clocking Hannah’s reflection in the glass, Francesca turned to face her. “Hannah. How lovely to see you.”

Francesca oozed confidence in her black Lycra leggings and the tightest of vest tops. Teamed with brilliant white trainers, the whole ensemble was obviously brand new, and Hannah would have put money on her buying the lot especially for the occasion. Hannah fake smiled. “Good to see you too.”

Francesca raised her eyebrows. “I hope you’re ready to run for your life.”

It was just like Francesca to issue a challenge, Hannah considered. The woman couldn’t seem to help herself. When they got down to it, she’d probably inform everyone they weren’t taking enough steps per minute the way she did calls per hour at work.

Francesca looked to Dorothy. “And you are?”

Dorothy beamed with pride. “The team captain.”

Francesca appeared momentarily confused, as if not sure she’d heard correctly. Suddenly, her expression relaxed, and she let out a laugh. “Good one,” she said, shaking her head as if Dorothy had been joking. Turning her back on Dorothy altogether, Francesca addressed Mel and Liv. “I’ll meet you inside.”

“Don’t take it personally,” Hannah said. “She’s like that with most people.”

Dorothy scoffed. “I learnt not to do that a long time ago.”

“Ready, ladies?” Appearing with Dorothy’s bag, Gabe held the door open so everyone could enter.

As soon as he was inside, the girl on reception glanced in Gabe’s direction. Her face broke into a big grin as soon as she saw him. “Gabe. Great to see you.” She nodded towards the stairs. “You know the way.”

Never one to be outshone by a pretty girl, Francesca appeared at Gabe’s side.

Hannah felt a pang of irritation thanks to all the eyelash fluttering in the place.

“I’m Francesca.” She held her hand out for Gabe to shake. “You should know, I’m also this motley crew’s team leader.” She made a disdainful show of glancing at the rest of the group. “I know, I know, but someone’s got to sort them out.”

“Have you heard her?” Mel asked, offended.

Liv scoffed. “The cheek of the woman.”

Hannah simply shook her head.

“Come on, everyone,” Francesca instructed. She paused to let Gabe lead the way. Despite trying to appear in the know, she obviously didn’t have a clue where she was going.

Entering a huge gymnasium,

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