The Christmas Menagerie by Minna Howard

The Christmas Menagerie by Minna Howard

Author:Minna Howard [Howard, Minna]
Language: eng
Format: epub
ISBN: 9781789541588
Publisher: Head of Zeus


26

Amelia got ready to go to the concert with David. She wore a pair of black velvet trousers and the blue Chinese silk jacket Esmond had bought her when he’d once gone to China on business, though she’d often seen ones the same sold here now. She loved it and used to often wear it; it was smart though not too smart, perfect for an evening out. If only it was just her and Esmond going out together, as they used to.

It was a pity that the concert was on Wednesday, mid-week, and not on a Saturday, so she could sleep in the following morning. Though at least it meant that David would have work the following day and that Sophie and Rufus were here in the house, which would cool any amorous ideas David might have. She could refuse without causing any upset. He might suggest she go home with him, but she would cope with that if it happened. She scolded herself for feeling a bit paranoid about it all.

Would you mind if it was Jules asking you to stay the night? An annoying voice sounded in her head.

David arrived at exactly the time he said he would to pick her up and Sophie, who’d been hovering about, ran to the door to open it as soon as she heard the bell.

‘Hi, I’m Sophie, Mum’s all ready,’ she greeted him cheerfully. ‘Do come in. Have you time for a drink?’

Amelia went to greet him, wondering if she should kiss him on the cheek but he looked a little awkward perhaps not expecting to be greeted by Sophie. She introduced them, adding, ‘She’s staying here a while.

‘It’s good to see you, David, I’m really looking forward to this. I haven’t been to Snape before. I’m told it’s marvellous.’

‘Yes, Snape’s a good place.’ David glanced towards Sophie and then back at her. She sensed an air of disappointment about him as if he’d hoped she’d be alone, though that was probably her imagination. She felt shy, uneasy now. Talking to friends in similar situations to her, she thought they’d taken these new relationships in their stride, or just been lucky by finding a kindred spirit, and didn’t stress so on how an evening might end. They were consenting adults after all, and as long as you didn’t snitch someone else’s man, it was up to you whose bed you ended up in.

Since Esmond’s death, Amelia had not gone on a date with a man she didn’t know. Now, she missed those warm, easy feelings they had between them from years living together; would she ever find that again?

Sophie caught her eye and winked which she knew meant she liked the look of David. She pretended she hadn’t seen it and also offered him a drink, but he seemed keen to go, saying there wasn’t time, it was quite a drive. He helped her on with her coat and made for the door.

‘Bye, Mum, have a great time,’ Sophie called after her as they went outside into freezing, dark night.



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