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"The bridegroom?" says Luke incredulously "You mean the pale-faced nonentity called Tole as I see Luke’s expression "Did you meet him, then?"

"I met him just now And his very unlovely wife Quite a pair" He takes a sip of chane and leans back on his elbows "By the way -- she looked rather taken aback to ht say As didI should know?"

"Er iht as much," says Luke "So the bridesmaid who cried out, ‘Oh my God, he exists!’ when I walked in She’s presuht" He nods "Just checking"

He reaches out for my hand, and I let hi round and round overhead, and in the distance I can hear the band playing "Lady in Red"

"Becky, I’rave "There was really nothing I could do I gave a lot of people a lot of grief, believe me"

"I’m sure you did" I exhale sharply "You couldn’t help it Just one of those things"

For a while longer we’re both silent

"Good chane," says Luke eventually, and takes a sip

"Yes," I say "It’s… very nice Nice and… dry…" I break off and rubto hide how nervous I a s, what’s the point in putting it off any longer? There’s only one thing I want to know I feel a spasm of nerves in my stomach, but somehow force myself to take a deep breath and turn to hio? How’s the… the new deal co to stay cal to tre thelass for aI need to tell you I’ to New York"

I feel cold and heavy So this is the end to a co ive a careless shrug "I see Well -- OK"

There’s silence -- and I force myself to look up The love in Luke’s dark eyes hits …" He takes both ht "… that you’ll come with sway London WC2 4TH

Ms Rebecca Bloomwood

Flat 2

4 Burney Rd

London SW6 8FD

17 September 2000

Dear Rebecca Bloolad that you are looking forward to flying with us and have already recoree that word-of-mouth business is invaluable for a co"

Unfortunately this does not, as you suggest, qualify you for "a special little thank-you" regarding luggage Regal Airlines is unable to increase your luggage allowance beyond the standard 20 kg Any excess weight will be subject to a charge; I enclose an explanatory leaflet