I… I mean, I didn’t think I fancied you,’ I blushed at the blunt comment. ‘Sorry, I…’ ‘No, me neither,’ she replied pragmatically with...a smile. The kettle had boiled and Sarah went back to the kitchen. I relaxed on the sofa and by the time she came back I was fast asl**p… *** I woke several hours later having slept as well as I could remember. Sarah had placed a blanket over me and was now wearing a dressing gown and curled in an armchair with a book on her lap, looking at me with a fond. But she didn't have to, he knew, he wanted her.She turned to leave, grabbing the handle of the door, when she felt him behind her, his hand grabbing her arm, spinning her, his big body against her, she looked up, startled.His large strong hand on her neck, grabbing her hair, tilting her head back, "You are a fine looking lady, do you always flirt with the workman" What are you doing, god, get off me, what, who do think you are" he voice was raised, she was trying to maintain her dignity, her. The flames had spread rapidly through the house. Thick black smoke billowed out as windows broke. Once he had finished his sandwich, Malcolm held an arm around Lilly.They’d been watching the fire for more than an hour when Malcolm noticed the dogs were coming to their feet. Rather than attack, they headed unsteadily towards the bridge. One of the dogs staggered before it managed to cross the bridge. It fell into the water and disappeared with a yelp as giant leeches grabbed hold of it. The last. Sue will be in shortly ... last minute dress change ... she is a bit nervous.”“God me too John...”“That makes it unanimous Larry ... let me get you a drink. What would you like?”“Scotch rocks please John.”John fixed three drinks and handed Larry his as he lifted his own and toasted, “To close friendships Larry.”Larry looked at John and smiled warmly and repeated, “To very close friendships. You know John ... I’ve talked with Sue quite a bit but I’ve never had the pleasure of much time with you..