Seduction In Sydney. Fiona McArthur

Marco. A hint of concern in her friend’s voice. ‘He’s going soon, isn’t he?’

      Like she needed to be reminded of that. Lily cared and was always discreet. Maybe it would help to tell someone. ‘I’ll stay sensible but I can’t help wishing he’d open up a little. Why is it so hard for men to talk about themselves?’ She glanced at Lily and smiled ruefully. ‘I’m pretty happy to chat about myself if someone asks.’

      ‘Women are used to connecting with people. But he’s not different. Luke was like a clam.’ She tilted her head and studied Emily’s face. ‘You really like him, don’t you?’

      ‘I don’t have any illusions. He’ll be gone by the end of the month, but Annie likes him as well. But, then, he did do a lifesaving operation on my grandchild.’

      ‘Always a good reason to like someone.’ They both grinned. ‘But I think it’s more than that. You look at him like I look at Luke. Or Evie looks at Finn. That worried, “are you okay, I care,” look that women get when they’ve chosen their mate.’

      ‘No, I don’t.’ She stared at her friend. ‘I hope I don’t. Do I? Lily?’

      Lily laughed at the lack of choice people had when they met their match. ‘Yeah. I can see you’re trying to keep your head free but that must be hard when your daughter invites him to put up decorations and come to her baby shower.’

      Emily put her head in her hands. ‘It was probably too late anyway.’

      Lily’s eyes opened wide. ‘You’ve slept with him!’

      Emily sighed. ‘I could tell you but then I’d have to kill you.’

      ‘Oh.’ Lily hugged her. ‘He’s a very cool guy.’

      Emily nodded. Ridiculously proud of him. ‘He’s amazing. But he has issues. In fact, I have issues. Like he’s leaving in a couple of weeks and the more I see of him the harder it’s going to be when he leaves. I should stop now.’

      Lily laughed and stood up. ‘If only it was that easy. And they all have issues. Look at Finn.’

      They looked at each other and shook their heads. ‘Wouldn’t be Evie for quids.’