Bloody hell, I could get addicted to her kisses.
I drew away after a few seconds, conscious of our company. I glanced over to Ethan and Avery. Ethan stared at us, an inscrutable look on his face. Avery’s jaw was almost hitting the floor.
“You two—” she began before Ethan shook his head at her. She closed her mouth but continued to stare between us, her eyes mischievous.
Olivia cleared her throat, blushing. “What’s everyone up to today, anyway?”
I exchanged glances with Ethan and Avery.
“Well…Eth and I had plans to go and watch Alex play rugby later. We’re in the hospitality box.” I scratched the back of my neck, shuffling my feet. “I guess I could see if there’s space if you wanted to come…”
Olivia narrowed her eyes, her expression knowing. “Thanks for the offer, but I don’t want to interfere with your boys’ day. Avery, fancy a trip to the National Gallery? There’s a new exhibition I wouldn’t mind seeing.”
“Sure, sounds good to me. I need to be at work at four, but I’m all yours until then. Shall we head over there now?” Avery smiled, slipping her bag over her shoulder, and turned to Ethan. “See you at home tonight?”
Ethan embraced her. “See you later, baby. Have fun. I love you.”
“Love you, too.”
Olivia and I were left standing awkwardly, and then I sighed and pulled her into a hug. “I’ll message you later, okay?”
She nodded against my chest, then stepped away from me, a small smile playing across her lips. “Thanks for, well, all of the stuff. You know.”
“I know.”
Lying in bed that night, I grabbed my phone and opened the messaging app. Scrolling down to Olivia’s name, I began typing.
Me: How was the gallery?
Olivia: Good. How was rugby?
Me: Good. The Hawks won 27-16 so Alex was happy.
Olivia: *thumbs up emoji*
Me: What you up to tomorrow?
Olivia: Nothing important. Why?
Me: If you’re bored I’m playing rugby with the boys. Think Avery’s coming if you want to join us?
Olivia: Avery’s playing?!
Me: Ha, no. Watching. It’ll only be a few of us throwing the ball around, not a proper game or anything. Could go for lunch after?
Olivia: OK sure. I’ll come and watch. Where and when?
Me: 10am Regents Park. Meet by The Hub.
Olivia: OK.
Me: Hey, guess what?
I sent her a screenshot of our conversation, with “Olivia” circled.
Olivia: I’ve been upgraded from Payne to Olivia? I feel very privileged. LOL.
Olivia: Guess what?