Page 92 (1/2)

We walk on again into the night without speaking Nathaniel’s shoulder brushes against ainst h by accident—then, slowly, entwine round mine

I feel an arching inside as my entire body responds, but somehow force myself not to catch my breath There’s no sound except our footsteps on the road and the hooting of an owl Nathaniel’s hand is sure and firhened calluses on his skin, his thu over mine

We coers’ drive He looks down at rave I can feelI don’t care if it’s obvious I want him

I was never any good at the rules, anyway

He releases my hand and puts both hands roundme toward him I close my eyes

“For goodness sake!” co to kiss her?”

I jump backward Nathaniel looks equally shocked; his arms have dropped to his sides I turn round—and toout of an upstairs , holding a cigarette

“I’m not a prude, you know,” she says “You are allowed to kiss!”

I shoot furious daggers at her Has she never heard the word privacy?

“Carry on!” Her cigarette end glows as she waves it “Don’t mind me!”

Don’tour first kiss with Trish as a spectator I glance uncertainly at Nathaniel, who looks as nonplussed as I feel

“Should we—” I’est

“Isn’t it a lovely suht?” adds Trish conversationally

“Lovely,” calls back Nathaniel politely

This is disastrous The mood is totally broken

“U to keep a straight face “I had a great time”

“Me too” His eyes are alive Mrs Geiger her kicks? Or leave her in an unbearable frenzy of frustration?”

Trish is still leaning avidly out the , as if we’re the floor show

“Oh … I think she probably deserves the unbearable frenzy of frustration,” I say with a tiny smile

“So I’ll see you tomorrow?”