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“So what brought you back? I thought you loved Paris”

“Oh, I do love Paris” I take another, longer drink, finishing off my vodka as my mind races to find a suitable answer I can’t say the truth: Arht home

“Even the City of Lights gets old after a while” It’s not very good, and I can tell he doesn’t buy it “And Moer”

Stuart accepts that lie a little better “Well, I’ain” He pats my arm “Come over and meet Mariska”

“Met a fresh drink”

He strolls away, and I turn and flag the bartender down “Vodka rocks” I slide a tenner across the counter It’s an open bar, but tipping ensures better service I’ll need a fewaround

Taking my drink, I turn my back to the bar and notice a tall, slender speci beside me He orders a vodka rocks, and I quickly assess hiht scruff on the cheeks Interesting Stepping back, he catches my inspection and pauses I lift rew up in, men don’t intimidate me

Apparently, I don’t inti

He exhales a laugh, revealing nice white teeth “Are you here for the bride or the groom?”

“Hmm” I realize I’m not sure how to answer that question I’uess”

“You guess?”

“I’m friends with both, but I knew Derek first”

“Ah,” he nods

“You?”

“Bride” Then he hesitates, taking a sip of his drink “Actually, no, that’s not right I guess my answer is the same as yours Only in reverse”