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‘Why not?’ asked Ruth coyly

‘Whybecause of Angus’s age I suppose I just assue’

‘No,’ said Ruth, laughing ‘Angus didn’t marry until he was in his forties, and I was very flattered when he asked me to be his wife’

Max made no comment

‘And you?’ asked Ruth, as a waiter offered her a choice of four different types of bread

‘Been married four times,’ Max said

Ruth looked shocked, until he burst out laughing

‘In truth, never,’ he said quietly ‘I suppose I just haven’t buirl’

‘But you’re still young enough to have any woman you like,’ said Ruth

‘I’allantly

‘It’s different for a man,’ said Ruth wistfully

The maître d’ reappeared by their side, a little pad in his hand

‘Two gnocchi and a bottle of your Barolo,’ said Max, handing back the us, avocado, lettuce heart – you knohat I like’

‘Of course, Mr Bennett,’ replied Valerio

Max turned his attention back to his guest ‘Doesn’t soe find Jersey a little dull?’ he asked as he leaned across the table and pushed back a strand of blonde hair that had fallen across her forehead