They talked about food, fashion, film and music until the lunch was over. Neither seemed comfortable chatting about serious topics or about their lives. Neither raised the question of getting together for sex. Bryan paid the bill and they wandered off down Burlington Street.

Light rain began but before they reached the corner it had turned into a heavy shower.

“Shit,” said Gail, “I didn’t bring an umbrella.”

“My car’s parked just round the corner. I can drive you back to work.”

“I’m returning to the city. You can drop me off at a station.”

They ran to Bryan’s grey Mazda3 sedan. Seated, Gail was barely out of breath from the run. Bryan was impressed. He said, “I know an empty flat not far from here where we can get a sho...

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