Chapter 40: Chapter 40: A night on the water

Impatience and annoyance bit him. 'You're the one who made it necessary that I come up with a story. You thought you were being clever. And I suppose you're proud of what you're doing to them.'

At that moment she wished she had never met him, and said so.

David's eyes widened. He lounged back. 'It wasn't me screwing dead meat, love.'

She took it like a body blow. Her colour vanished then flooded back with a vengeance.

David's mouth curled. 'Contrary to what you read in romance novels, blushing does not become you.'

Noel glowered. Unable to respond she flung herself around.

'Oh, and ...' he hadn't quite finished with her, 'take it easy with the booze tonight. Watching you hang over a toilet bowl isn't pleasant.'

She swivelled. 'You won't have to worry. I won't be back.'

He followed her to the bathroom. 'Hall get his kicks watching you spew, does he?' She looked ready to attack.

'God, you're vulgar. Why I ever thought you were worth ...'